I can understand why this book is banned because of all the cursing but its also pretty silly. Kids curse! So what! It's just the way this character talks. I thought it was funny hearing him narrate and the things he repeated often, like the reassurances, "I really was." and things similar to that. It sounded like the kid had been through some tough stuff and I felt sympathy for him. His love for his sister was sweet. The last chapter surprised me. I would recommend checking this classic out!