Judge Yolanda Curtin ruled from the bench Thursday after a hearing. The decision, hailed Friday by lawmakers and educators, is the first legal test of Maryland’s 2024 Freedom to Read Act, which limits removal of school-library materials based on authors’ backgrounds or partisan, ideological or religious objections.

The dispute began in November 2024, when a parent asked the school system to reconsider the book. The parent said she had not read it in full but objected to passages she believed did not reflect community values and could affect young people exploring their identities or experiencing mental-health challenges.

“Flamer” is a young-adult graphic novel based on Curato’s experiences. It follows a boy at summer camp before he enters high school as he grapples with sexuality and religion, bullying and thoughts of suicide.

Harford County’s review process required a nine-member panel—including students, parents, educators and a community member—to read the entire book and consider professional reviews and awards. In March 2025, the panel concluded that scenes involving profanity, sexuality, partial nudity, bullying and suicidal thoughts were contextually appropriate and not excessive. It voted to retain the book in high school libraries, including schools that combine middle and high school grades. The superintendent accepted that recommendation in May.

The county board later voted 5-3, with one abstention, to reverse the decision and remove the book. The board cited what it called pervasive vulgarity and a lack of educational suitability, as well as concerns about age appropriateness.

A group of parents, a local advocacy organization and the Harford County Education Association appealed to the state Board of Education. In November 2025, the state board reversed the county, finding that the local board had not shown the review panel or superintendent had acted improperly or failed to follow the required procedure. The county board then challenged that decision in court.

Del. Dana Jones, an Anne Arundel County Democrat who sponsored the Freedom to Read Act, said Curtin’s ruling showed the law was working as intended to protect libraries, librarians and the freedom to read. She said parents can make choices for their own children, but one person or school board should not make that choice for every family.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Maryland, which argued the case, also welcomed the ruling. Sonia Kumar, a senior staff attorney with the organization, said it affirmed the law and students’ access to books reflecting a range of experiences and identities.

The Harford County Board of Education did not immediately respond to a request for comment Friday.