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Temporarily RemovedThe book has been pulled from shelves pending a formal review.
Ban Details
- Jurisdiction
- South Orange & Maplewood School District, NJ
- Type
- school district · school
- Stated Reason
- Scene depicting suicide attempt during mental health crisis; district stated it was 'the right book' but 'the wrong time with what's happening' given at least five suicide attempts by students this year
- Categories
- Sexual Content
- Challenged By
- School administrators (board member)
- Key Dates
- Reported: Feb 20, 2026Resolved: Feb 20, 2026
- Verification
- Verified by Admin review on Apr 10, 2026
Timeline
Temporarily RemovedThe book has been pulled from shelves pending a formal review.
After pushback, district implemented opt-in permission form system for parents to allow students to study the novel. PEN America classifies this as a book ban. Book had been in curriculum since 2011. Article notes district passed 'Right to Read' resolution in June 2023 and NJ signed statewide 'Freedom to Read' law in December 2024.
Sources
- NewsNPRFeb 20, 2026