At a time when book bans are sweeping across schools and libraries in the United States, one author’s name continues to rise to the top of the most challenged lists, Ellen Hopkins. With her powerful novels in verse tackling addiction, abuse, trauma, and identity, Hopkins has long been a voice for young people navigating the harshest realities of life. Her books have been removed from shelves for the very same reasons they are loved, because they tell the truth. We sat down with Ellen to talk about what it’s like to be the number one most banned author in America today, how censorship has shaped her career, and why she continues to write the stories others are afraid to tell.
Your books have been among the most banned in the USA. How did you feel the first time you learned your work was being challenged — and has your reaction changed over time?
The first time my books faced a challenge was many years ago. The very first time CRANK was challenged my reaction was "why WOULDN'T you want your kid to read this book?" It was honestly a surprise. Over the years, single challenges caused similar reactions. But what's happening now isn't about the books. It's politics. Period. And it's the kids who need books like mine who are worse off because of it.
Many of your novels tackle raw and difficult subjects. Why do you think it’s so important for young readers to have access to these stories?
Because life is messy. Kids will be presented with choices and expected to make the right decisions, but without some idea of outcomes they won't always make good ones.
Books are among the safest spaces to learn about life's messy problems and witness human responses to them. Better to explore on the page than on the street.
Has the experience of being banned shaped the way you write or the topics you choose to explore?
Not so far, although I've been tempted to self censor, But I've always promised my readers to tackle the tough stuff honestly. Truth and facts are harder and harder to discern right now. I've made a pact with my readers and I'd be cheating them if I broke it.
What would you say to parents, educators, or lawmakers who believe your books are “inappropriate” for young people?
I'd say they really need a better relationship with young people, who are far more sophisticated and intellectually curious than they'd like to admit. I've now raised three generations of teens, have talked to literally tens of thousands of them, and I know the issues they must face on the daily. They are more than capable of reading about them. Many, many have experienced them.
What originally drew you to writing novels in verse, and how do you think that format enhances the emotional impact of your work?
I was a poet before I started writing novels. Poetry is personal; it's how the poet views the world, and so verse puts readers deep inside the characters' heads and hearts. It also reads musically, and is attractive to those less enthusiastic about reading. The white space is comforting.
Your books often explore addiction, trauma, and identity. Where do you draw your inspiration, are your stories informed by personal experiences, research, or something else?
Originally, it was personal experiences, then the experiences of friends or something I read in the news. And then readers started sharing their stories, which often serve as inspiration, though I never want to write their stories for them. As for research, I was a freelance journalist and nonfiction writer first. I can get lost in it.
When did you know you wanted to become a writer, and what were the early influences that shaped your path as an author?
At nine years old, a local newspaper published one of my poems. That pretty much set me on the path. Even when I wasn't writing for money, I filled dozens of legal pads with poetry, character studies, short stories, etc. I do credit my mom, who loved books, with passing that love on to me and encouraging my journey.
With increasing censorship across the US, what advice would you give to young writers who want to tell unflinching, honest stories in today’s climate?
To be completely honest, publishing is at a crossroads right now. Not because people don't want books, but because publishing is a bottom line business, and this whole book banning thing has made publishers nervous. But if you're a real writer, tell the stories you need to tell, and tell them as honestly as possible. Because readers want the truth of whatever you're writing, from romance to horror. And brilliant writing will always find a home.
Best selling author Ellen Hopkins is a champion for truth-telling, a fierce advocate for youth, and a fearless writer who refuses to back down in the face of censorship. As book banning grows increasingly politicized, her words remind us of the power literature holds to create empathy, spark conversation, and guide readers through life’s messiness. For every attempt to silence stories like hers, there are countless young people who find understanding and healing in their pages.
→ View Ellen Hopkins' complete collection of banned books here
* photo credit - Wall Street Journal 2013