Antwerp School Pulls Reading List After Graphic Novel Sparks Outrage Over Sexual Violence
A primary school in Antwerp has removed its recommended reading list for second-grade students after a parent discovered a graphic novel containing explicit scenes of sexual violence and aggression against women.
The controversy centers on the book “Everyone on Claudia” by Sam Peeters, which was one of approximately 60 titles students could choose from for a school assignment. While the graphic novel is described as a silent story about a failed crush, its listed “ingredients” include obsession, sex, and childhood memories.
The issue came to light in February 2026, when the father of a student noticed the graphic nature of the content and filed a formal complaint against the Sint-Lutgardis school. The move underscores the ongoing tension between introducing diverse literary styles in early education and maintaining strict age-appropriate boundaries.
Stijn Verbist, the attorney representing the school, stated that the administration was unaware of the specific scenes in the book and intervened immediately once the complaint was made. Verbist explained that the school’s approach aligns with the Dutch curriculum, which encourages teachers to introduce students to a wide array of literary forms, including essays, poetry, novels, and graphic novels.
According to Verbist, the school had relied on a curated list of 60 graphic novels for several years. This specific list was compiled by the “Dutch Comic Creator Laureate” and was intended for educational use.
Following a review of the book, the school determined that the content was inappropriate and did not align with its pedagogical policies. The reading list was taken offline and will no longer be used at the institution.
School officials have since issued an apology to the parent following a series of discussions that began in February 2026.
