These are the 11 books some parents want banned at Roxbury schools and what they're about

Eleven books found on the shelves of the Roxbury High School library have sparked widespread debate within the community. Many of these books include LGBTQ+ themes.

Librarian Roxana Russo Caivano supports keeping the books on the shelves. She claims a school library should have access to all perspectives should a student wish to explore a topic further. Opponents argue the books depict sexual activity and other subject matter in a way that is not appropriate for minors.

The following are summaries of each of the 11 books put under review by the Roxbury Board of Education.

'Gender Queer' by Maia Kobabe

This graphic novel serves as an autobiography of the author’s life and experiences coming to terms with various queer identities. It explores complex emotions that come with self-discovery and provides a glimpse into the realities of queer youth struggling with their gender identity.

'Let’s Talk About It' by Erika Moen and Matthew Nolan

This book aims to serve as a guide to some of growing up’s most frequently asked questions. Presented as a graphic novel, the book covers topics from sexuality and gender to friendships and jealousy.

'This Book is Gay' by Juno Dawson

This book serves to act as the ‘manual’ for all things regarding the LGBTQ+ community. It provides an honest yet humorous look at important topics regarding sexuality and gender and hopes to educate both members of the queer community and their allies.

'Flamer' by Mike Curato

Curato, inspired by his own experiences, wrote a graphic novel that follows the story of a young boy named Aiden on a journey of self-discovery. The work aims to emphasize the importance of accepting young people and their identities, especially when they are struggling to accept themselves.

'Me and Earl and the Dying Girl' by Jesse Andrews

This novel follows two high school boys who befriend a girl who recently has been diagnosed with leukemia. The book serves as a coming-of-age story that covers the challenges of growing up all told from the lens of a teenage boy.

'Fun Home' by Alison Bechdel

Bechdel’s memoir follows her journey with growing up and coming to terms with being a lesbian, which contrasts with her father’s repressed queer identity. The novel explores themes of sexuality, gender, dysfunctional families and suicide.

'Milk and Honey' by Rupi Kaur

This collection of poetry follows the themes of violence, love, loss and more. Each section of the work addresses a different form of pain and the healing that follows. The goal is to show the reader the ‘sweetness’ that can be found even in the darkest of moments.

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'All Boys Aren’t Blue' by George Johnson

Johnson’s series of personal essays detailing his experience growing up as a Black queer boy in New Jersey shines a light on intersectionality. It covers topics such as gender identity, toxic masculinity, consent, Black joy and more.

'Blankets: A Graphic Novel' by Craig Thompson

This graphic novel follows the author as he grows up in Wisconsin. The work tackles his conflicts regarding first love and religious faith, while also examining his relationship with his younger brother.

'Oryx and Crake' by Margaret Atwood

Set in the near future, this novel follows Snowman − formerly Jimmy − as he grieves the deaths of Crake and Oryx all while trying to survive in a post-apocalyptic world. He goes on a journey to find answers and is accompanied by Crake’s children.

'Beyond Magenta' by Susan Kuklin

This collection of interviews and photographs take a look at six transgender or gender-neutral young adults. Each of their stories aim to convey the diverse realities of struggling with one’s gender identity and the highs and lows that come along with it.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Roxbury NJ school book ban debate includes these 11 titles