Dickens & Rumi
Cover of EMERGENCY CONTACT

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EMERGENCY CONTACT

Mary H. K. Choi

After a chance encounter, Penny and Sam develop a relationship over text message. (Ages 14 and up)

Ages 16+Source checked

Why this age? The novel includes college-age romance, sexual content, panic attacks, emotionally challenging family and identity issues, and naturalistic treatment of mature topics. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age16+

Strongest cautions

  • Romance5/5
  • Sexual content & nudity3/5
  • Strong language3/5

Strongest positives

  • Diverse representation4/5
  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

References to modern technology and social platforms used for communication.

Strong language3/5
Why this rating?

Moderate use of casual, realistic profanity consistent with college-aged speech.

LGBTQIA characters1/5
Why this rating?

Includes minor or secondary representation within the diverse student social circle.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Includes references to the characters' personal backgrounds, including cultural/familial religious traditions.

Romance5/5
Why this rating?

The novel is explicitly described as a love story centered on Penny and Sam’s developing intimate relationship.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

The intensity of panic attacks and internal emotional distress may be unsettling to younger readers.

Sexual content & nudity3/5
Why this rating?

The novel includes sexual content in the context of consensual young-adult romance; it is mature but not the sole focus.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Characters engage in casual drinking and occasional recreational drug use.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

Includes descriptions of intense anxiety and panic attacks, but no physical violence.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Focuses on the courage required to be vulnerable and seek help for mental health.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Explores artistic expression through the protagonist's interest in film and writing.

Diverse representation4/5
Why this rating?

Features Korean-American leads and a diverse supporting cast, reflecting contemporary university settings.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Offers insights into the immigrant experience, microaggressions, and managing mental health.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Empathy and emotional support are central to the characters' connection.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

It emphasizes communication, emotional honesty, navigating anxiety, identity, boundaries, and the complexity of relationships.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters are flawed and realistic, learning through mistakes and personal growth.

Family discussion

Talk about it

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

  1. Whose perspective did the story help you understand better?
  2. How did relationships or romance affect the characters’ choices?
  3. Which choice in EMERGENCY CONTACT would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in EMERGENCY CONTACT, 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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