Dickens & Rumi
Cover of DEEP BLUE

book

DEEP BLUE

Jennifer Donnelly

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for DEEP BLUE by Jennifer Donnelly. This book is recommended for ages 12+; content notes include Death of a character, Frightening scenes, Violence; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Creativity & curiosity.

Ages 12+Source checked

Why this age? Fantasy violence, frightening creatures and threats, grief, and mature themes of duty and oppression suit middle-grade-to-young-teen readers more than young children. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age12+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

There are mentions and occurrences of death relevant to the plot of a war-themed fantasy.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Injuries are described in a fantasy context but are not gratuitous or excessive.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild language consistent with teen fantasy literature.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

Features world-building based on mythology and fictional underwater religious practices.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Contains innocent teenage romantic interests and betrothal dynamics.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Includes tense situations, threats to characters, and mysterious, foreboding environments.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

No drug or alcohol use.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Features fantasy combat, battles involving magical weaponry, and dangerous sea creatures.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters repeatedly face danger and oppression, showing principled bravery and persistence rather than simple fearlessness.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

The underwater world, magical mythology, invented cultures, and quest structure strongly encourage imagination.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Features a diverse cast of mermaids from different geographical ocean regions.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Encourages interest in marine life and environmental themes, though purely fictional.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Emphasis on friendship and working together to overcome challenges.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong messages about leadership, responsibility, and the importance of unity.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist demonstrates growth, courage, and a strong sense of duty to her people.

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 DEEP BLUE would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in DEEP BLUE, 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 hereDEEP BLUE
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS (FULL-CAST EDITION)J.K. RowlingAges 13+HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWSJ.K. RowlingAges 13+HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCEJ.K. RowlingAges 13+HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE (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