About this book
"Ninth House" by Leigh Bardugo follows Alex Stern, a Yale University student with a troubled past who is tasked with overseeing the secretive societies on campus that practice dark magic. As she navigates the dangerous world of the elite, themes of power, privilege, and trauma emerge, reflecting on the interplay between the supernatural and real-life struggles. The novel is significant for its exploration of mental health, the consequences of privilege, and the complexities of morality in a richly woven urban fantasy setting.
Censorship history
In 2025, "Ninth House" by Leigh Bardugo faced bans at various school levels across the United States, primarily due to its LGBTQ+ content, sexual themes, violence, drug use, offensive language, and perceived immorality. Notably, several school districts in states such as Texas and Florida initiated formal complaints and held school board votes that resulted in the book's removal from libraries and curricula. The bans were part of a broader trend of challenges against literature addressing complex social issues, reflecting ongoing debates about educational content and student exposure to sensitive topics.
Bans
| Country | Year | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2025 | LGBTQ+SexualViolenceDrugsLanguageMoral |
