6. The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger JD Salinger's iconic novel of teenage rebellion has provoked a storm of complaints – from being "anti-white" and "obscene" to being "centred around negative activity" and "a filthy, filthy book" – since its publication more than 50 years ago. It returned to the list of most challenged books this year after a four-year absence. "It's a cherished favourite for many readers so seeing it there can be shocking," says Maycock. "People might ask 'are we still having problems with Catcher in the Rye?' The truth is, yes we are. It's a classic because of many of the things that make it potentially objectionable, including the language used and the fact that Holden Caulfield is a classic non-conformist. That can be scary." Reasons given: Sexually explicit, offensive language, unsuited to age group

Photograph: Amy Sancetta/AP