Let's start with the title—let's face it, it's long and a kind of a mouthful. But overall, the book is an easy and quick read, with a lot going on under the surface that will make your students think more deeply. Easy, quick, and thoughtful? A winner. The plot is compelling, the characters real, and the mystery element will keep the kids hooked. Of course, there are a few things that might qualify as detractors when reading this in school, so let's tackle those demons one by one.

Swearing and Sex

Yes, the double whammy of swearing and sex is in there. The book's been banned by several school districts because of the language, and Mark Haddon's views and ideas of dealing with such censorship are better than anything we could say, so we'll let him take over on this point.

There's some talk of "doing sex," in Chris's matter-of-fact manner. It's pretty straightforward: be careful of Stranger Danger because it might be some guy wanting to do sex, it's a cause of divorce, and it's the reason Mr. Shears left Mrs. Shears. It's not graphic, but it's in there.