This is the quintessential young adult novel. In fact, it is largely recognized as the first real book of that genre. It’s moving, and poignant and chock full of content to be aware of. I would recommend parents read this before or as their teen is reading it so you can discuss it with them.
From the category archives:
Surprisingly graphic violence for the recommended age-range. Really, really surprising. Some kids may be bothered by the level of violence and some of the harshness of being a bounty hunter’s child. Proceed with caution.
This book is often used as an example of an authentic teen voice in books. Even though the protagonist is 13, the sexual content of the book is pretty mature and not a good fit for most younger teens. The family situation is fairly dysfunctional.
A likeable character, unusual and very interesting story. Likely a better fit for closer to 10 and 11 year-olds, due to just a few bits of mature content.
Mature content in terms of language and sexual activity. Feels fairly real-to-life for older teens, likely won’t be news to them, but it is fairly mature. I may have said that already…
An interesting premise of what happens when a popular girl transports into the life of a non-popular girl. This first book in the series isn’t particularly dark, though there are some social circumstances with parents to be aware of.
Despite the premise of the story, not a lot of content. It’s a ghost story about a child who drowns. It’s not particularly creepy, but it is scary. (Note: I read it at night and it gave me nightmares, but I’m sensitive to such things. :) It may whet your kid’s appetite for more horror stories, and most are not as mild as this one. If your child is not sensitive about ghosts, the content is mild enough that it’s likely okay for kids down to age 12.
An interesting story with an interesting premise. Okay for precocious readers, likely down to age 12, though keep an eye on the review. The thinly-disguised list of banned music/art/books at the end of the book will delight teens.
This is a really lovely story, one that both boys and girls will like (told from the perspective of a sister and a brother). A strong family story and a beautiful view on a simpler time with a family who loves each other and acknowledges each other’s differences. The reference in the synopsis to a ‘threatened way of life’ is because of the islands discovery by Columbus in the last page of the story. A note at the end of the book by Columbus implies that he is intent on capturing the people to be servants.
Historical and geographical references, ‘National Treasure’ for kids. The family members are pretty hostile to each other. Grownups and authority figures are not portrayed particularly well. Kids will like the adventure in the book.
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