Let me start by telling you that I do NOT read books searching for "hidden" meanings. In fact, that was a problem for me in high school because I don't do symbolism. To me, a book is what it is. If it is a story about a lion, a witch and a closet, that is what I read about. This is why the controversy over The Golden Compass sort of passed me by.
My sister wanted to see the movie because she had read the controversy. I tagged along because I like Nicole Kidman. The movie was...eh. That's about all I can say. However, it got my sister fired up and we went out and bought the books.
OK, I read the first book. Once again...eh. Not much there to keep me attracted. Then I started the second book. Now I discover the controversy. Asriel is trying to kill God. He is searching for a way to do it. As far as I am concerned, this isn't symbolism, this is blasphemy. Now I will have to finish the books and see what happens.
I don't use controversial books in my classroom. I don't feel that they really have a place in elementary school. Kids don't get it. The Giver, The Golden Compass Series, just don't belong in elementary school. Parents need to be aware of what their children are reading. I had a parent tell me I was teaching ancient Egyptian religion to their child because they were reading The Egypt Game. I asked her to read it before she made a judgement like that. She did and her son kept reading the book.
It is really hard to limit books to children in the class because of a faith structure they may not or may believe in. I let my daughters read anything they wanted as long as they talked about it to me. But, I don't give my class the same options. I have had too many parents come unglued on yours truly in the past. I understand it. It certainly has changed the way I feel about putting books out on the shelves.
Books about slashing and cutting...yes
Books about killing God, abortion, euthinasia...no