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Cover of THE CALLING

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THE CALLING

Kelley Armstrong

Friends face the wilderness; Book 2 of Darkness Rising.

Ages 13+Source checked

Why this age? Supernatural threats, peril, imprisonment, violence, and emotionally intense danger are balanced by friendship and courage; romance and sexual content remain limited. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

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At a glance

Recommended age13+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • Violence3/5
  • Death of a character2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

There are instances of death or near-death situations affecting side characters or enemies.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Includes minor descriptions of injuries and blood related to supernatural combat and escapes.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Mild profanity and adolescent frustration, consistent with contemporary young adult fiction.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Contains teen romantic tension and emotional development within the main character group.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

Tense atmosphere, creepy supernatural elements, and characters in constant danger from shadow organizations.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Very light references or incidental teen attraction; no explicit content.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional passing references, not a central theme or glamorized behavior.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Features suspenseful chases, supernatural battles, and physical confrontations typical of teen supernatural thrillers.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Central theme of facing extreme danger and the unknown with bravery.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Inventive use of supernatural powers and strategic problem-solving throughout the plot.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Includes a variety of backgrounds represented within the small group of supernatural teens.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Incidental focus on critical thinking and teamwork under pressure.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonists rely on empathy and mutual support to survive their circumstances.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Emphasizes the importance of loyalty, self-discovery, and standing up against corrupt systems.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters demonstrate resilience and protectiveness, showing moral growth through difficult choices.

Family discussion

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

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in THE CALLING would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE CALLING, 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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