The details seem to be murky, but... I can't think of a better recent book to be required reading at a middle school level than Ender's Game.
Let's see: the entire Ender saga is a morality tale. The book illustrates the advantages of analyzing a situation and applying innovative solutions that work. It encourages looking for the true value in a person without judging by outward appearances. It points out that the youngest, smallest, physically weakest, etc., can be part (or most) of the solution to a problem.
Why would anyone object to that as a teaching tool for young adults? Oh, yeah..... Well, at least it will join a large list of incredibly good books that have been banned because some narrow-minded person objected, and a range of officials with no backbone caved in.
If I had a child that age, I'd make sure they had access to a wide range of banned books!
KentE
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