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Banned Books Week

Banned Books Week is an annual event celebrating the freedom to read.

Leaves of Grass

by Walt Whitman

Leaves of Grass by Walt. Whitman
Call Number: Foley General Collection PS3201 1973; Foley General Collection PS3201 1981; Foley General Collection PS3201 1965; Gonzaga-in-Florence General Collection PS3201 1940; Ebooks available

ISBN: 9780393043549

Publication Date: 1855

Leaves of Grass is a collection of poems by Walt Whitman originally published in 1855 at the poet's own expense. Criticized when first released for Whitman's use of free verse and his rather racy depictions of sexual love and the senses, Leaves of Grass is a celebration of the human form, the material world and nature.

Why was this book challenged?

Reasons: Sexual Content, LGBTQIA+

Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman was received poorly when it was published in 1855. Nearly every library in America refused to purchase a copy at the time, and Whitman was fired from his job as a clerk because of the LGBTQIA+ themes in the book.
Books with LGBTQIA+ content are still being targeted for censorship today, please see our Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
Read review excerpts, responses to challenges of this book, and more on Book Résumés.

Last Updated: Sep 30, 2025 4:22 PM
URL: https://researchguides.gonzaga.edu/BannedBooksWeek
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Subjects: UASC Exhibits

Tags: Banned, Banned Books, Banned Books Week, Censorship, Challenged Books, Intellectual Freedom

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