Ban This Book

The Banned Books Locker Library is a symbol for rebellion and freedom throughout the novel, and as such it contributes to the theme of “Power and Control Over Others.” At first the collection of books simply serves readers who want to satisfy their curiosity about why the book was banned in the first place. Soon, however, Amy Anne, Rebecca, and Danny take steps to keep the collection secret. Amy Anne empties her locker to make room; to notify others about available titles, she uses green dots on a list; she later hides the list behind a poster; and to protect readers from discovery, they employ MJ to create fake book covers.

These steps show how the trio evolves as a functioning organization. Rebecca also claims their “incorporated” status and gives them official position titles. Soon they extend their rebellion against those in power and authority by surreptitiously taking the very copies banned from the library and later, by orchestrating the accumulation of over seven thousand Request for Recommendation forms. The BBLL is so effective that by the resolution of the novel, ironically, it is no longer needed. Amy Anne, Rebecca, and Danny have met the goals of their cause and Mrs.