While we can sit here and discuss whether the graphic content of this book is appropriate for 9th graders or whether the parents are misguided in sheltering their son, we really just need to look at the real issues at hand. ISSUE #1. THE TEACHER KNEW THIS BOOK WAS CONTROVERSIAL AND MAY NOT BE SUITED FOR EVERYONE. By placing a permission slip on her web site, she acknowledges the above statement. ISSUE #2. THE TEACHER DID NOT REQUIRE SIGNED PERMISSION SLIPS FROM THE PARENTS TO READ AND DISCUSS THIS BOOK IN CLASS. Although the perm. slip may be on her web site, it is clear that she didn't require a parent's signature before proceeding teaching this book in class. If she had a stack of SIGNED permission slips before she proceeded with this book, this entire situation would not be taking place. ISSUE #3. AN OPTIONAL READING WAS GIVEN TO THE CLASS, BUT SHOULD THIS DECISION BE IN THE HANDS OF A 9th GRADER OR HIS/HER PARENTS? It is clear an optional reading was given. However, with such a controversial book, the decision of whether to read this book or another one should not be in the hands of 9th graders. This should be the decision of the parents, which again leads back to the permission slips. ISSUE #4. THE STUDENT NEEDS SCHOOLING. Whether it be home schooling or returning to Ashley or another high school, he needs to continue his education ASAP. We can debate whether the parents are too over-protective or whether the teacher is out of line, but the above items are the issues that need to be quickly addressed.