Not a lot of content to worry about for this age-group, but because the main character is 13, it will primarily appeal to kids 13 and under. While this book is mild on content (and likely okay down to age 11 or 12), it is a bit of a ‘gateway substance’ for a genre that can go quite dark. Likeable teen boy characters.
From the category archives:
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.
No new content worry about in this 3rd installment of the series. Please read the previous reviews in this series to get a good feel fo rit.
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.
The main character is in peril, chased by some pretty evil bad guys. Adults are not protective of the children in the story. Some unresolved family issues (why does Edward’s aunt not want to give him a home?). Edward is brave and clever. The story is likely okay for most 9-12 yo’s, though kids sensitive to `evil’ scariness might want to wait ’til they’re closer to 11 or 12.
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.
Check out the review of ‘The Lightening Thief’ for more info on the series. This book was milder in comparison, so no worries if your child did fine with Book 1. In addition to watching Percy continue to grow as a hero, there are two strong female teens who may be a draw for readers who are girls.
On New Year’s Eve, Cal is chased down the street by a staggering, sick man with a deadly warning…”They killed your father. They’ll kill you. You must survive the next 365 days. Hurled into a life on the run the 15-year-old fugitive is isolated and alone. (Feburary) 
Seventeen-year-old Ronnie is resentful when her mother insists she and her ten-year-old brother spend the summer with their estranged father, and while things get off to a rocky start, she begins to understand her dad and why he wanted her to visit. 
Meals: The art and science of feeding your family Click here to check it out! 