The Color Purple has a lot of frank sexuality in it: molestation/rape and a very positively described (yet still somewhat graphic, if memory serves) lesbian relationship. Up to you and your kid. I teach HS--wouldn't give it to my 9th graders most likely, but the advanced kids are often able to handle it by 10th or 11th, but only if they're emotionally "there" as well as intellectually.

Stacey. Former high school teacher, back in the corporate world, mom to 2 bright girls: DD12 & DD7.