March is a fantastic book about the history of the Civil Rights movement and revolves around John Lewis's work with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). It covers everything from the diner sit-ins of the early 1960's, to the bus Freedom Riders and of course the Selma/Montgomery march. I was a little concerned that a graphic novel would make the history feel cartoony but it really didn't. If anything it made the history seem more real because it didn't pull any punches. I would say this trilogy of books should be required reading for any kid 8th grade on up. Of course it would probably get banned (if it isn't already) because of its liberal use of the "N" word, swearing and difficult subject matter. But that's exactly why young teens should read it. It may make you uncomfortable but sometimes history is that way.
FYI, If I were in charge I would also require "Maus" by Art Spiegleman and "They Called Us Enemy" by George Takei.