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A Comprehensive List of Banned Books of All Time

Last Updated : 26 Mar, 2024
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Banned books often tackle tough topics like racism, sexuality, and politics. But despite the bans, many of these books have become classics and are celebrated for their powerful messages. By exploring banned books, we can learn about different perspectives, challenge our own beliefs, and understand the importance of freedom of expression in our society.

In today’s world, some books are considered too controversial and get banned. These books challenge the rules and make people think differently. In this article, we’ll talk about banned books and why they’re not allowed in some places. We’ll look at a list of books that have been banned and discuss why they’re important.

Whether you love reading or just want to know more about free speech, this article is for you. Let’s dive into the world of banned books and see why they matter.

List of Banned Books: Worldwide

Here is the list of the top banned books all over the world:

  1. “Flamer” by Mike Curato (2020)
  2. “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson (2020)
  3. “Red Hood” by Elana K. Arnold (2020)
  4. “A Court of Frost and Starlight” by Sarah J. Maas (2018)
  5. “People Kill People” by Ellen Hopkins (2018)
  6. “Monday’s Not Coming” by Tiffany D. Jackson (2018)
  7. “Damsel” by Elana K. Arnold (2018)
  8. “Lawn Boy” by Jonathan Evison (2018)
  9. “The Nowhere Girls” by Amy Reed (2017)
  10. “What Girls Are Made Of” by Elana K. Arnold (2017)
  11. “A Court of Wings and Ruin” by Sarah J. Maas (2017)
  12. “Thirteen Reasons Why” by Jay Asher (2007)
  13. “A Court of Mist and Fury” by Sarah J. Maas (2016)
  14. “Scars” by Cheryl Rainfield (2010)
  15. “Shine” by Lauren Myracle (2011)
  16. “This One Summer” by Mariko and Jillian Tamaki (2014)
  17. “The Carnival at Bray” by Jessie Ann Foley (2014)
  18. “Melissa (George)” by Alex Gino (2015)
  19. “Watchmen” by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons (1987)
  20. “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood (1985)
  21. “Forever…” by Judy Blume (1975)
  22. “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison (1970)
  23. “Lucky” by Alice Sebold (1999)
  24. “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie (2007)
  25. “Oryx and Crake” by Margaret Atwood (2003)

1. “Flamer” by Mike Curato (2020)

“Flamer” by Mike Curato is a book about a boy named Aiden Navarro. Aiden is at summer camp, where he meets a new friend named Elias. Even though Aiden thinks he’s not gay, he starts to feel differently around Elias. The book is about Aiden figuring out who he is and dealing with bullies at camp.

It’s a story about friendship and growing up. Some schools banned the book because they didn’t like the topics it talked about, but many readers found it relatable and important for understanding different people’s experiences.

Why this Book is Banned?

“Flamer” by Mike Curato has been banned in some schools because it talks about LGBTQ+ themes and bullying. Some people think these topics are not suitable for students, so they decided not to allow the book in schools. Despite this, many readers believe the book is important for understanding different experiences and helping people to be more accepting.

2. “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson (2020)

“All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson is a memoir that shares the author’s experiences as a queer Black individual in the United States. Through personal essays, Johnson explores topics such as gender identity, racism, and queer love. The book is praised for its honest portrayal of these issues and its significance as a representation of LGBTQIA+ experiences.

Why this Book is Banned?

“All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson has faced bans or objections in some places due to its LGBTQIA+ themes. Some people believe these topics are not suitable for certain audiences, like students. Despite this, the book is praised for its honest portrayal of important social issues.

3. “Red Hood” by Elana K. Arnold (2020)

“Red Hood” by Elana K.Arnold is a gripping retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, where 16-year-old, Bisou Martel confronts a predator in the forest, fighting for her life and autonomy. This dark and powerful coming-of-age tale was banned eight times in the first half of the 2022–23 school year for its sexually explicit content.

Why this Book is Banned?

“Red Hood” by Elana K. Arnold has faced bans due to its sexually explicit content. Some schools or communities have deemed the content inappropriate for the intended age group of readers, particularly due to its graphic portrayal of certain themes. As a result, the book has been restricted or removed from school libraries or curriculum. However, it’s important to note that perceptions of appropriateness may vary, and what is considered acceptable in one setting may not be in another.

4. “A Court of Frost and Starlight” by Sarah J. Maas (2018)

“A Court of Frost and Starlight” by Sarah J. Maas is a fantasy novel that serves as a bridge between the events of “A Court of Wings and Ruin” and the subsequent books in the series. In this installment, readers follow the aftermath of a conflict as Feyre and her friends navigate the consequences.

The story delves into themes of friendship, healing, and the complexities of relationships in a magical world. While the book’s romantic undertones have sparked criticism, it remains popular among fans of the series. “A Court of Frost and Starlight” offers readers a glimpse into the lives of beloved characters as they continue to evolve and face new challenges in their fantastical realm.

Why this Book is Banned?

“A Court of Frost and Starlight” by Sarah J. Maas hasn’t faced widespread bans. However, some objections arise due to its romantic themes and content, which some may find inappropriate for certain audiences. Despite this, the book remains popular among fantasy enthusiasts.

5. “People Kill People” by Ellen Hopkins (2018)

“People Kill People” by Ellen Hopkins is a gripping novel that delves into the complexities of human nature and violence. Through compelling storytelling, Hopkins explores themes like gun violence, family dynamics, and societal pressures. The book offers readers a thought-provoking exploration of these issues, making it a powerful read for those willing to confront harsh realities.

Why this Book is Banned?

“People Kill People” by Ellen Hopkins has faced bans or challenges due to its portrayal of sensitive and controversial topics like gun violence, family dysfunction, and societal pressures. Some individuals or groups deem the content inappropriate for certain audiences, leading to objections or efforts to restrict access to the book in schools or libraries. Despite this, the book sparks important discussions about challenging issues in society.

6. “Monday’s Not Coming” by Tiffany D. Jackson (2018)

“Monday’s Not Coming” by Tiffany D. Jackson is a gripping young adult novel that follows Claudia’s search for her missing best friend, Monday. As Claudia investigates Monday’s disappearance, she uncovers dark secrets and unsettling truths about their neighborhood. Through compelling storytelling, Jackson explores themes of friendship, loss, and societal neglect.

Why this Book is Banned?

“Monday’s Not Coming” by Tiffany D. Jackson has faced challenges and bans in some school districts and libraries due to its content, which includes themes of child abuse, neglect, violence, and sexual assault. The novel also addresses issues related to race and socioeconomic disparities, which some individuals or groups may find controversial or objectionable.

7. “Damsel” by Elana K. Arnold (2018)

Elana K. Arnold’s “Damsel” is a dark and feminist retelling of the traditional fairy tale trope of the damsel in distress. The story follows Ama, who is rescued from a dragon by a prince and taken to his kingdom to be his bride. However, as Ama learns more about the prince and his kingdom, she begins to question the true nature of her rescuer and the role she is expected to play in this patriarchal society.

Why this Book is Banned?

“Damsel” by Elana K. Arnold has been banned in some places due to its explicit content and themes of misogyny, sexual violence, and power dynamics. Some readers and parents have objected to its portrayal of disturbing scenes, including instances of sexual assault.

Additionally, the book’s exploration of gender roles and societal expectations has sparked controversy and led to calls for its removal from school curriculums and library shelves.

8. “Lawn Boy” by Jonathan Evison (2018)

In “Lawn Boy,” Jonathan Evison crafts a coming-of-age story about Mike Muñoz, a young man struggling to find his place in the world. Despite his difficult circumstances, Mike remains determined to make a better life for himself through hard work and perseverance. The novel explores themes of class, race, and the American Dream, offering a poignant and often humorous portrayal of one young man’s journey to adulthood.

Why this Book is Banned?

“Lawn Boy” by Jonathan Evison has faced challenges and bans in some school districts due to its themes of drug use, explicit language, and mature content. Some parents and educators have raised concerns about the book’s portrayal of adolescence, including its depiction of teenage rebellion, drug experimentation, and sexual encounters.

These objections have led to calls for the removal of “Lawn Boy” from school libraries and reading lists, citing its inappropriate content for young readers.

9. “The Nowhere Girls” by Amy Reed (2017)

Amy Reed’s “The Nowhere Girls” is a powerful and timely novel about three girls who come together to fight back against rape culture at their high school. Through their activism, they inspire other girls to speak out and demand change. The novel tackles difficult subject matter with sensitivity and honesty, shining a light on the importance of solidarity and standing up for what is right.

Why this Book is Banned?

“The Nowhere Girls” by Amy Reed has been banned in certain school districts due to its explicit content and themes, including sexual assault, feminism, and LGBTQ+ identity. Critics have objected to its portrayal of sensitive topics, such as rape culture and teenage sexuality, leading to calls for its removal from school libraries and reading lists. However, supporters argue that the book offers valuable perspectives on consent, empowerment, and social justice, advocating for its availability to readers who can benefit from its themes.

10. “What Girls Are Made Of” by Elana K. Arnold (2017)

Elana K. Arnold’s “What Girls Are Made Of” is a raw and unflinching exploration of girlhood, sexuality, and societal expectations. The novel follows Nina as she navigates the complexities of her relationships with boys, her mother, and herself. Through Nina’s journey, Arnold challenges traditional notions of femininity and offers a thought-provoking critique of the ways in which girls are often objectified and commodified in our society.

Why this Book is Banned?

“What Girls Are Made Of” by Elana K. Arnold has been banned in some areas due to its explicit content and discussions of female sexuality, body image, and reproductive rights. Critics argue it’s inappropriate for young readers, while supporters highlight its honest portrayal of teenage girlhood.

11. “A Court of Wings and Ruin” by Sarah J. Maas (2017)

Sarah J. Maas’s “A Court of Wings and Ruin,” part of the “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series, follows Feyre’s journey with her sisters into the fae world. However, its romantic themes led to nine bans in the 2022–’23 school year, primarily due to concerns over sexual content. Despite this, the series remains popular on TikTok.

Why this Book is Banned?

A Court of Wings and Ruin” by Sarah J. Maas has faced challenges and bans due to its mature themes, including explicit sexual content and violence. Some critics argue that the content is not suitable for younger readers and may promote unhealthy relationships or behaviors.

12. “Thirteen Reasons Why” by Jay Asher (2007)

Jay Asher’s “Thirteen Reasons Why” evokes strong reactions as it explores high schooler Clay’s receipt of tapes from his deceased friend Hannah. The book prompts debate about its impact on readers, with concerns about glamorizing suicide or offering comfort to struggling individuals. Despite its potential resonance, the novel faced eight additional bans in the 2022–’23 school year.

Why this Book is Banned?

“Thirteen Reasons Why” by Jay Asher has faced bans and challenges in some areas due to concerns about its portrayal of suicide and its potential impact on young readers. Critics worry that the book’s graphic depiction of suicide may be harmful or triggering for vulnerable individuals, while others argue that it opens important conversations about mental health and bullying.

13. “A Court of Mist and Fury” by Sarah J. Maas (2016)

Sarah J. Maas’s “A Court of Mist and Fury,” the second book in the “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series, faced 11 bans in the first half of the 2022–’23 school year, primarily due to its sexual content. The novel continues Feyre’s journey as she grapples with the aftermath of the first book’s events, facing new challenges and discovering her strengths in a magical world threatened by evil.

Why this Book is Banned?

“A Court of Mist and Fury” by Sarah J. Maas has not been officially banned. While it has faced criticism and challenges for its mature content, there is no widespread ban on the book. It deals with themes of romance and violence, which have led to restrictions in some schools and libraries, but it remains available in many places.

14. “Scars” by Cheryl Rainfield (2010)

Cheryl Rainfield’s “Scars” is a raw and powerful novel about Kendra, a teenage girl struggling with self-harm and the trauma of sexual abuse. Through Kendra’s journey toward healing and self-acceptance, Rainfield explores themes of trauma, recovery, and the importance of finding support and understanding. The novel offers a sensitive portrayal of mental illness and the impact of violence on survivors, emphasizing the importance of empathy and compassion.

Why this Book is Banned?

“Scars” by Cheryl Rainfield has been challenged and banned in some school districts due to its sensitive portrayal of self-harm, sexual abuse, and other traumatic experiences. Critics argue that the book’s content is too mature for young readers and may be triggering or inappropriate for some audiences.

15. “Shine” by Lauren Myracle (2011)

This young adult mystery novel by Lauren Myracle revolves around a horrific assault that renders Patrick, a gay teen, unconscious and lifeless. Cat, his best friend, is sixteen years old, and she sets out to find out who did this to him.

Along the journey, she encounters the ghosts of her past as well as the poverty, drug addiction, homophobia, and other prejudices that surround their town. Six bans in four states between July and December 2022 resulted from questions raised over Shine’s themes and strong language.

Why this Book is Banned?

Shine” by Lauren Myracle has been banned for its portrayal of drug use, violence, strong language, and themes of homophobia and hate crimes, which some deem inappropriate for young readers.

16. “This One Summer” by Mariko and Jillian Tamaki (2014)

This beloved graphic novel, written by Mariko Tamaki and drawn by Jillian Tamaki, tells the heartwarming tale of a girl named Rose spending a perfectly typical summer vacation with her family.

Why this Book is Banned?

This One Summer had already received six bans halfway through the 2022–2023 academic year, primarily as a result of misunderstandings over the age of its intended audience and the inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters, certain illustrations of sexually explicit content, and mature themes.

17. “The Carnival at Bray” by Jessie Ann Foley (2014)

Jessie Ann Foley’s “The Carnival at Bray” offers a heartfelt coming-of-age story, exploring the challenges of adolescence amidst cross-cultural transitions and familial dysfunction.

Why this Book is Banned?

The story explores issues of identity, sexuality, and the challenges of adolescence via the path of self-discovery of the heroine Maggie. Despite its delicate treatment of these issues, the book received seven bans at the start of the 2022-’23 school year. Foley’s book captures the raw emotions and lessons of adolescence, making “The Carnival at Bray” a moving read for those on their own journeys of development and insight.

18. “Melissa (George)” by Alex Gino (2015)

Alex Gino’s novel “Melissa” has faced repeated challenges since its 2017 release for its portrayal of a transgender girl. The story follows Melissa, previously known as George, as she navigates identity and acceptance.

Why this Book is Banned?

Despite educators praising its representation, the book has been frequently banned due to LGBTQIA+ content conflicting with some religious beliefs. In the first semester of the 2022–’23 school year alone, it accrued seven additional bans, highlighting ongoing debates over inclusivity in children’s literature.

19. “Watchmen” by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons (1987)

Six more bans were imposed on this well-known and critically acclaimed 1980s graphic novel by British authors Alan Moore and illustrator Dave Gibbons in the first half of the 2022–2023 academic year.

Why this Book is Banned?

This fascinating and controversial work, which explores issues of power, authority, and morality, has been taught in classrooms and school libraries for years. Despite its mature topics and explicit scenes, its representation of life and issues of authority and power are still relevant today.

20. “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood (1985)

Margaret Atwood’s dystopian masterpiece, “The Handmaid’s Tale,” imagines a totalitarian society in which women are stripped of their rights and forced into reproductive servitude. The story is told from the perspective of Offred, a Handmaid who struggles to survive in this oppressive regime while holding onto her memories of freedom and autonomy. Atwood’s chilling portrayal of a world gone wrong serves as a warning against the dangers of extremism and the erosion of civil liberties.

Why this Book is Banned?

“The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood has been banned in some schools and communities due to its explicit sexual content, violence, and themes of misogyny, oppression, and religious extremism. Some find its depiction of a dystopian society disturbing or inappropriate for certain audiences.

21. “Forever…” by Judy Blume (1975)

Judy Blume is a modern literary classic; her 1975 novel Forever is among her best-known works. Blume talks candidly about what it’s like to be a young woman in the world, focusing on Katherine, a classmate whom she “does it” for when she falls in love for the first time. They are made to part ways despite their declarations of love and assurance that they will be together forever. Katherine has to learn how to live in a society where issues like abortion, birth control, choice, and responsibility are all present.

Why this Book is Banned?

“Forever…” by Judy Blume has been banned or challenged in various places due to its explicit sexual content and discussions of teenage sexuality. Some parents and educators have objected to its portrayal of sexual relationships, contraception, and abortion, believing it to be inappropriate or unsuitable for young readers.

22. “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison (1970)

Toni Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye” offers an entry point into her lyrical prose, depicting Percola Breedlove’s desire for blue eyes and the disturbing aftermath of her wish.

Why this Book is Banned?

Despite its literary significance, the book encountered 10 bans in the first half of the 2022–’23 school year due to graphic content and offensive language. Nevertheless, Morrison’s influence was acknowledged by the USPS, which commemorated her with a stamp in 2023.

23. “Lucky” by Alice Sebold (1999)

Originally written as a moving, brave, devastating, but ultimately uplifting memoir, Lucky told the story of author Alice Sebold’s survival of a vicious rape and assault while she was a college student, as well as her subsequent path to justice and recovery.

It was evidence of both her courage and the era’s legal system. The publisher removed the book from the shelf once the guy who had been falsely convicted of the charges against her was completely cleared decades later.

Why this Book is Banned?

Lucky now reads more like a horror story than anything else, as one reporter pointed out when it was published. Halfway through the 2022–2023 school year, the book has already resulted in six bans; nevertheless, the objections are centered on the “obscene content” that describes her attack and rape rather than the recently disclosed instances of thwarted justice.

24. “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie (2007)

Sherman Alexie’s semi-autobiographical novel “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” follows Junior, a teenage boy who leaves his reservation school to attend an all-white high school in a nearby town. Through Junior’s humorous and poignant observations, the novel explores themes of identity, culture, and the quest for belonging. With its blend of humor and heartache, “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” offers a poignant and deeply personal exploration of the Native American experience.

Why this Book is Banned?

“The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie has been banned or challenged in some school districts due to its depiction of alcoholism, bullying, violence, and sexual content. Some parents and educators have objected to its use of profanity and themes related to racism and cultural identity.

25. “Oryx and Crake” by Margaret Atwood (2003)

Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel “Oryx and Crake” imagines a future world ravaged by corporate greed, genetic engineering, and environmental collapse. The story is narrated by Snowman, one of the last surviving humans, who reflects on his past and the events that led to the near-extinction of the human race. Through its provocative vision of the future, “Oryx and Crake” raises important questions about the ethical implications of scientific advancement and the consequences of unchecked technological progress.

Why this Book is Banned?

“Oryx and Crake” by Margaret Atwood has faced challenges and bans due to its explicit sexual content, graphic violence, and themes of genetic engineering and biotechnology, which some deem inappropriate for certain audiences, particularly young readers. Additionally, its dystopian portrayal of society and critique of scientific advancements have sparked controversy and objections from some parents and educators.

Most Banned Books –

This table represents a list of banned books along with the reasons for their ban:

# Book Title Author Banned Count Reasons for Ban
1 Flamer Mike Curato 15 LGBTQIA+ content
2 All Boys Aren’t Blue George M. Johnson 9 LGBTQIA+ content, graphic content
3 Red Hood Elana K. Arnold 8 Sexually explicit content
4 A Court of Frost and Starlight Sarah J. Maas 9 Sexual content
5 People Kill People Ellen Hopkins 5 Violence, sensitive topics
6 Monday’s Not Coming Tiffany D. Jackson 6 Drug abuse, child abuse, neglect
7 Damsel Elana K. Arnold 7 Sexually explicit content
8 Lawn Boy Jonathan Evison 6 Mature themes
9 The Nowhere Girls Amy Reed 6 Teenage rape, mature themes
10 What Girls Are Made Of Elana K. Arnold 9 Mature themes
11 A Court of Wings and Ruin Sarah J. Maas 9 Sexual content
12 Thirteen Reasons Why Jay Asher 8 Suicide, mature themes
13 A Court of Mist and Fury Sarah J. Maas 11 Sexual content
14 Scars Cheryl Rainfield 0 Sexual abuse, mature themes
15 Shine Lauren Myracle 6 Strong language, mature themes
16 This One Summer Mariko and Jillian Tamaki 6 Sexually explicit content, LGBTQ+ characters, mature themes
17 The Carnival at Bray Jessie Ann Foley 7 Mature themes
18 Melissa (George) Alex Gino 7 LGBTQIA+ content, conflicting religious beliefs
19 Watchmen Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons 6 Mature topics, explicit scenes
20 The Handmaid’s Tale Margaret Atwood 6 Sexual tyranny, mature themes
21 Forever… Judy Blume 6 Sexual content, mature themes
22 The Bluest Eye Toni Morrison 10 Graphic content, offensive language
23 Lucky Alice Sebold 6 Objectionable content describing attacks and rape
24 The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian Sherman Alexie 5 Profanity, sexual overtones
25 Oryx and Crake Margaret Atwood 6 Mature themes, sexually explicit content

Banned Books (Release Dates)

Book Title Release Date Publisher
Flamer 2020 Henry Holt and Co.
All Boys Aren’t Blue 2020 Farrar, Straus and Giroux
Red Hood 2020 Balzer + Bray
A Court of Frost and Starlight 2018 Bloomsbury YA
People Kill People 2018 Margaret K. McElderry Books
Monday’s Not Coming 2018 Katherine Tegen Books
Damsel 2018 Balzer + Bray
Lawn Boy 2018 Algonquin Young Readers
The Nowhere Girls 2017 Simon Pulse
What Girls Are Made Of 2017 Carolrhoda Lab
A Court of Wings and Ruin 2017 Bloomsbury YA
Thirteen Reasons Why 2007 Razorbill
A Court of Mist and Fury 2016 Bloomsbury YA
Scars 2010 WestSide Books
Shine 2011 Amulet Books
This One Summer 2014 First Second Books
The Carnival at Bray 2014 Elephant Rock Productions
Melissa (George) 2015 Scholastic Press
Watchmen 1987 DC Comics
The Handmaid’s Tale 1985 McClelland & Stewart
Forever… 1975 Simon & Schuster
The Bluest Eye 1970 Holt, Rinehart, and Winston
Lucky 1999 Scribner
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian 2007 Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Oryx and Crake 2003 McClelland & Stewart

Conclusion

Exploring the list of banned books helps us grasp how society sets rules, controls what we read, and values freedom of expression. Understanding the reasons behind these bans is vital for building a community that embraces diverse perspectives in literature, fostering an environment where everyone’s ideas are respected and appreciated.

A Comprehensive List of Banned Books of All Time – FAQs

1. What are banned books?

Banned books are those that have been restricted or removed from libraries, schools, or bookstores because they contain content that some people or groups find objectionable or inappropriate. Reasons for banning can include offensive language, sexual content, themes of violence, or any subject matter considered unsuitable for certain audiences.

2. Why are some books banned?

Books are often banned due to their content, themes, or language, which some individuals or groups may find offensive, harmful, or contrary to their beliefs or values. Common reasons include sexual content, violence, offensive language, drug use, or themes related to race, religion, gender identity, or sexuality.

3. Can banned books still be important to read?

Yes, banned books can be very important to read as they often tackle tough topics like racism, sexuality, politics, and human rights. By exploring these books, readers can gain different perspectives, challenge their own beliefs, and understand the importance of freedom of expression. Many banned books are celebrated classics that contribute to our understanding of society and history.

4. Are all banned books inappropriate for everyone?

Not necessarily. Whether a book is considered “inappropriate” can vary widely depending on individual perspectives, cultural backgrounds, and personal beliefs. What may be objectionable to some may be seen as an important and enlightening work by others. Age, maturity, and context also play significant roles in determining appropriateness.

5. How can I find out why a book was banned?

You can find out why a book was banned by looking into reports from libraries, educational institutions, and organizations that track censorship, such as the American Library Association (ALA). These sources often provide information on the reasons behind book challenges and bans.



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