Dickens & Rumi
Cover of HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWS

book

HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWS

Erin A. Craig

Annaleigh tries to unravel the darkness that has fallen over her family. (Ages 12 to 17)

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? Gothic suspense, multiple deaths, disturbing supernatural imagery, grief, psychological distress, and mature romantic themes may be intense for younger readers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age14+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character5/5
  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • Romance3/5

Strongest positives

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

What’s in it?

Death of a character5/5
Why this rating?

The central plot revolves around the successive, tragic deaths of several sisters.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Includes descriptions of tragic deaths and decay that are unsettling but not overly graphic.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Features mild language appropriate for a YA audience.

LGBTQIA characters1/5
Why this rating?

No significant LGBTQIA themes present.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Fictional folk rituals and superstition are woven into the plot.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

Romantic attraction, relationships, jealousy, and kissing are important parts of the story, though mystery and grief remain central.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

Strong gothic atmosphere includes ghosts, curses, mysterious deaths, nightmares, haunted settings, and sustained supernatural suspense.

Sexual content & nudity2/5
Why this rating?

Minimal, non-explicit content.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Includes brief mention of adult consumption.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Contains moments of physical conflict and eerie, supernatural encounters.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters confront supernatural danger, family trauma, and frightening truths with persistence and moral courage.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

The inventive fairy-tale reimagining, lush gothic world, mystery structure, and supernatural imagery strongly engage imagination.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Features a large cast of sisters, though cultural diversity is not a primary focus.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Explores themes of fairy tale deconstruction and literary analysis.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Sisterly bonds and loyalty are prominent.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Themes of survival, questioning truth, and coping with grief.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist shows resilience and dedication to her family despite dark circumstances.

Family discussion

Talk about it

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. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWS would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWS, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to get it

Find in a libraryBuy on Bookshop.orgBuy on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate and Bookshop.org affiliate, Dickens & Rumi may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

If you liked this

Try something nearby

Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

You’re hereHOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWS
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWSJ.K. RowlingAges 13+HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCEJ.K. RowlingAges 13+HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS (FULL-CAST EDITION)J.K. RowlingAges 13+HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE (FULL-CAST EDITION)J.K. RowlingAges 12+

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating