After reading the article “Seaside High School reading material under fire,” I read the book, “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian.” What a great read! And, in my opinion as a parent of both boys and girls, wholly appropriate for any boy or girl over the age of 12.

This book is honest, insightful and true to life, especially in its portrayal of how teens view and relate to their world. It realistically deals with difficult topics like sex, racism, bullying, poverty, addiction and more, as seen through the eyes of a 14-year-old boy.

Here’s an idea — teachers should release a reading list at the beginning of the school year or semester. Parents can then decide for each book listed if they will permit their child to read it or not, without deciding for other parents what their children are allowed to read.

However, those parents should also be required to suggest an alternative read for their child, and their child alone, addressing at least some of the same issues of the book in question. Or they can opt to have their child excused from that portion of the class.

Hiding certain realities from children will never prevent them from being impacted by those realities. They are inescapable, and surround and impact them every day.

And God forbid children should be given the opportunity to discuss these realities in a safe environment with their peers! The danger is clear! They might learn to (not how to) think. That is the book-banners’ greatest fear! Independent thought!

BILL GRAFFIUS

Gearhart