The increasing number of bans on LGBTQ+ books in 2023 reflects a historical pattern of suppressing queer literature. Over 4,200 titles were challenged in response to new state policies, such as Florida's law limiting discussions on sexual orientation and Missouri's ban on sharing explicit material in schools. This modern censorship echoes past efforts, dating back to the medieval era when homosexual desire was labeled as "sodomy" and seen as a moral sin needing suppression.