This Book Won’t Burn
This Book Won’t Burn by Samira Ahmed, published by Little, Brown in 2024, is a 384-page young adult fiction novel that explores themes of activism and social justice. The story follows Noor Khan, who, after her father leaves and her family relocates from Chicago, faces the challenges of starting her senior year at a new school. As she navigates her new environment, Noor discovers a troubling trend of book banning, particularly affecting works by queer and BIPOC authors, which compels her to confront the injustices around her.
Readers will find a narrative that delves into the complexities of standing up for one’s beliefs in the face of adversity. The book addresses significant social themes, including prejudice and racism, while also weaving in elements of romance and the importance of literature. As Noor grapples with her desire to effect change, she must also contend with the potential consequences of her activism in a small-town setting. This edition presents a timely exploration of contemporary issues, making it a relevant addition to discussions about freedom of expression and the power of literature.
Official synopsis Publisher
★ “[Ahmed] employs high stakes, increasing tensions, romantic near-misses, and adult hypocrisy to powerful effect.” –Publisher’s Weekly, starred review
From the New York Times bestselling author of Internment comes a timely and gripping social-suspense novel about book banning, activism, and standing up for what you believe.
After her dad abruptly abandons her family and her mom moves them a million miles from their Chicago home, Noor Khan is forced to start the last quarter of her senior year at a new school, away from everything and everyone she knows and loves.
Reeling from being uprooted and deserted, Noor is certain the key to survival is to keep her head down and make it to graduation.
But things aren’t so simple. At school, Noor discovers hundreds of books have been labeled “obscene” or “pornographic” and are being removed from the library in accordance with a new school board policy. Even worse, virtually all the banned books are by queer and BIPOC authors.
Noor can’t sit back and do nothing, because that goes against everything she believes in, but challenging the status quo just might put a target on her back. Can she effect change by speaking up? Or will small-town politics–and small-town love–be her downfall?
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