Those who seek to ban or challenge books often cite cultural standards, age-appropriateness, and other innocuous reasons for their attempted censorship. However, analysis of affected books and their authors reveal major biases. Nearly all of the targets of book challenges and bans address issues of identity, most commonly the Black and LGBTQ+ communities.
The majority of bans and challenges are aimed at books intended for children and young adults. Banning books that address what can be uncomfortable topics is an attempt to limit the ideas young people are exposed to.