The Classic Children's Book That Was Banned for Promoting Disobedience

When it comes to book banning, there are some usual reasons for librarians, schools, parents, and governments to use. Most of the time, it's to silence specific voices or it's due to the view of the sexual nature of the novels. However, there are also times when absurd reasons are given, and that's certainly been the case with many a children's book.

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak faced banning and challenges after its 1963 release. Yet, despite all the controversy that surrounded it, it would go on to win the Caldecott Medal in 1964, leading it to become one of the most beloved children's books of all time.

‘Where the Wild Things Are' Reportedly Promotes Disobedience

The biggest reason for parents, schools, and librarians to want Where the Wild Things Are was due to the view that it would promote disobedience. There were also claims upon the publication of the book that it was "too dark."

After all, our main character, Max, is disrespectful to his mom. When he lashes out in anger, he is sent to his room without food, and there were some who viewed that as being traumatic for young readers as well as encouraging the same reaction. This complained continued in 1969, with child psychologist Bruno Bettelheim sharing that he viewed the book as being "psychologically damaging" to young children.

Many of the complaints continued throughout the decades, and in 1983, a Ohio school board challenged the book due to the encouragement to lie and misbehave. Where the Wild Things Are hasn't been the only book to face this challenge, with Harriet the Spy and James and the Giant Peach in good company with it.

The Supernatural Elements of the Story Were Also Challenged

It won't be surprising to hear that there were also challenges against the supernatural elements of Sendak's story. This is one of the biggest reasons for children's books to be banned and challenged, with many parents worrying about the promotion of witchcraft. The Harry Potter series was among the list of books challenged due to the same reason.

Where is the supernatural element to the story? It's all in Max's imagination! He creates a "wild" fantasy land, which serves as a metaphor for his emotions throughout the story. It looks like many of the themes were misinterpreted in this children's book.

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This story was originally published May 13, 2026 at 10:45 AM.