Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Earwig and the Witch

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Earwig and the Witch

2021

A headstrong orphan discovers a world of spells and potions while living with a selfish witch.

Ages 8+Source checked

Why this age? Mild fantasy danger, threatening magical situations, orphan-related themes, and emotionally unsettling adult behavior may trouble younger children, while the story’s complexity suits roughly age 8 and up. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age8+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence2/5
  • Alcohol or drugs1/5

Strongest positives

  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Good role models2/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

No deaths occur.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Some mild name-calling or disrespectful dialogue consistent with the protagonist's personality.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

The witch and the mysterious magical environment may feel slightly tense for very young viewers.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Fantasy potions and ingredients appear, but there is no evidence of realistic recreational substance use or glamorized drinking, smoking, vaping, or drugs.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Contains brief, mild fantasy conflicts and magical mishaps.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist demonstrates courage by standing up to authority figures in a magical world.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Magic, music, imaginative world-building, and inventive problem-solving strongly encourage creative engagement.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Features a diverse cast typical of anime storytelling, though not central to the plot.

Kindness & empathy1/5
Why this rating?

Kindness emerges as a nuanced theme through the development of the characters' relationships.

Positive messages2/5
Why this rating?

Focuses on self-reliance, finding one's family, and the power of cleverness.

Good role models2/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist can be manipulative, though she also exhibits agency and resourcefulness.

Family discussion

Talk about it

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

  1. What was the most imaginative idea in the story, and what would you add to it?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in Earwig and the Witch would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Earwig and the Witch, 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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