Censorship

I remember hearing about the possibilty of Harry Potter being banned when I first read the book. I couldn't really see what they thought was so bad about it. To me, it seemed like any other fantasy book. It wasn't trying to convince me that "magic" was real or that I should believe I'm a witch. It was just a purely fictional book that allowed me to enjoy reading.
I don't think it should be banned because of it's content. People can find something to criticize about every book. The idea of religion comes up with Harry Potter because of the magic, but then the book The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe was also considered to be banned and it is a religious allegory. They both explore the idea of magic and witches, yet some people feel that Harry Potter is worse? I don't see how they could put those in separate categories.
If I were teaching a group of 4th, 5th or even 6th graders, I would use this book. It is an exceptional example of high fantasy. It allows students to get out of their daily routine and travel to a magical place where all kinds of interesting things happen. As I read it, I enjoyed being able to escape to Hogwarts. Harry Potter is one of those books that draws students in from the very beginning. From the very first page, they can't put it down! This is the kind of book that needs to be put in the hands of a kid who hates to read novels. It might seem like an extremely long book at first, but they'll get so sucked in and read it in no time! Then, they'll feel great about themselves and be willing to read another long book.
I can see where some parents might have issues with the book. There are some parts that are "scary" and might be too mature for some students. I read this book in 5th grade and occasionally I had nightmares about Voldemort or I would be reading it late at night and get scared in my bedroom. Other than that, I think parents should view this book as strictly what it is, high fantasy.
Overall, I love the Harry Potter books. I get really defensive if someone says "I hate those books, they're advocating the devil," especially if the person hasn't even read the book. I don't believe J.K. Rowling was trying to make anyone turn to witchcraft with her writing. I don't see anything wrong with the books and really enjoy them for what they are, fiction.