'Perks of Being a Wallflower' to remain required reading for Dubuque AP literature class

A committee has decided to keep a book some say is too racy for use in a Dubuque high school class.

"The Perks of Being a Wallflower" is required reading for an Advanced Placement literature class at Hempstead High School. But some parents have complained about the book's sex scenes and depictions of drugs and alcohol use.

After nearly 3 hours of public comment, mostly in support of keeping the book, the committee of parents, teachers, and students unanimously voted to take no action.

That means the book will remain an assigned reading for that class.

The district has clarified the book is not required for all students, only those taking the AP modern literature class. The teacher provides an alternative book if students or their parents request it.