The novel's content has been the frequent target of censors. It ranks number 8 on the American Library Association list of most commonly challenged books in the United States for 1990–1999.[2] On the ALA list for 2000–2009 it ranks No. 28.[13] The challenges stem from death being a part of the plot;[14][15] Jesse's frequent use of the word "lord" outside of prayer;[16] allegations that it promotes secular humanism, New Age religion, occultism, and Satanism;[17] and for use of offensive language.[18]
The novel is often featured in English studies classes in Ireland, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Canada,[19] the Philippines, Ecuador, the United Kingdom,[20] Costa Rica, Panama, South Africa and the United States.
In 2012, the novel was ranked number ten among all-time best children's novels in a survey published by School Library Journal, a monthly with primarily U.S. audience. Two other books by Paterson made the top 100.[21]
