If poeple would just say what they mean. Each time he is reading it off a wall. If someone goes through this life without seeing the word somewhere, then that person is a tad too sheltered for me. Call me close minded, but I have no need to hear why a person thinks it should be banned. When ignorance wins, and 16 year olds are reading Goosbumps in class as opposed to Catcher in the Rye, Native Son, and Bless Me Ultima, we have done a grave disservice to our future.
Great literature is great for a reason - let students find out why.
Parents have a right to voice their concerns without being written off as mere censors, unworthy of real consideration. As teachers we have to be careful not to come off as condescending, know it alls. And acknowledging the value of parental input is important, even, or especially when, we don't agree with what they say. Frankly, I thought the book, when I read it as a teen, was a really depressing, whiny book, but I do realize I should read it again for a new perspective. We have to be open and welcoming to parents, and really listen to what they have to say.