Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE UNEXPECTED EVERYTHING

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THE UNEXPECTED EVERYTHING

Morgan Matson

A teenager's politician father faces a scandal. (Ages 12 and up)

Ages 13+Source checked

Why this age? Best suited to teens because of dating, kissing, parties, some drinking, mild profanity, grief, and emotionally mature family and relationship themes. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age13+

Strongest cautions

  • Romance4/5
  • Alcohol or drugs2/5
  • Death of a character2/5

Strongest positives

  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Positive messages4/5
  • Courage & resilience3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

Generic brand mentions are typical of contemporary fiction.

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist's mother died years prior to the story, which is referenced as backstory.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Contains occasional mild profanity or teen slang.

LGBTQIA characters2/5
Why this rating?

Includes side characters who are LGBTQIA, reflecting a modern social environment.

Romance4/5
Why this rating?

The narrative focuses on budding romance, dating, and kissing.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Contains minor innuendo or discussion typical of the teen romance genre.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mention of teenage social drinking or parties.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist must face personal insecurities and changing circumstances.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Encourages creative problem-solving and exploring interests outside one's comfort zone.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Includes a diverse array of peer friendships.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Offers insight into high school life, internship challenges, and family dynamics.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Strong focus on supportive friendships and bonding with animals.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Promotes themes of friendship, accepting change, and taking responsibility.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist experiences realistic growth while navigating challenges.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. Where did a character show kindness or empathy, and what changed because of it?
  2. How did relationships or romance affect the characters’ choices?
  3. Which choice in THE UNEXPECTED EVERYTHING would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE UNEXPECTED EVERYTHING, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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