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THE COUNSELORS

Jessica Goodman

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for THE COUNSELORS by Jessica Goodman. This book is recommended for ages 15+; content notes include Death of a character, Frightening scenes, Romance; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Positive messages.

Ages 15+Source checked

Why this age? The novel combines a murder investigation, peril, grief, sexual situations and references, substance use, strong interpersonal conflict, and mature themes of privilege and trauma. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age15+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character4/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Romance3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Positive messages3/5
  • Creativity & curiosity2/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

No significant brand product placement.

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

A central death drives the plot; mourning and the impact of the loss are explored.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Includes descriptions of a crime scene and body recovery.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Moderate use of teen-appropriate profanity.

LGBTQIA characters2/5
Why this rating?

LGBTQIA+ identity and relationships are represented among the teen characters, though the thriller plot remains primary.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

Includes teenage romantic relationships and crushes.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

A threatening summer-camp setting, secrets, stalking-like tension and danger create sustained suspense, though the book is more psychological than intensely frightening.

Sexual content & nudity3/5
Why this rating?

Teen sexual situations and references appear, including mature discussion of consent and sexual misconduct; this is more substantial than mild innuendo but not explicit.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Underage characters engage in drinking and parties.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Contains depictions of a suspicious death and physical confrontations common in thrillers.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Characters must face danger, painful truths, grief, and social consequences; bravery is connected with telling the truth and seeking accountability.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Engages with deductive reasoning and complex plotting.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Maintains a diverse cast of characters.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Explores social dynamics and pressure.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Moments of friendship are contrasted with competitive behaviors.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

The story examines accountability, loyalty, privilege, secrecy, consent, and the consequences of protecting reputations over people.

Good role models2/5
Why this rating?

Characters are flawed teens who grapple with difficult moral choices.

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 THE COUNSELORS would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE COUNSELORS, 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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