I had to read Bridge to Terebithia and Where the Red Fern Grows as well, and I liked them. I understand what you mean about wanting to read things that are sad or disappointing, but I think it is important to get some of that in school.

I might feel differently if all or even most of the books we read in elementary (and middle) school were depressing, but we had a healthy blend of fun and happy stories too, like The Phantom Tollbooth and From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. One of our main focuses in sixth grade was Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH and our assignments ranged from debating the pros and cons of animal experimentation to writing a short story sequel to the book.

I'm not sure that I would ever make The Chocolate War mandatory though. The systematic disassembly of that one classroom was an inspiration to some students, and for a time there was a sharp spike in screw-related vandalism.