Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE SCORPION AND THE NIGHT BLOSSOM

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THE SCORPION AND THE NIGHT BLOSSOM

Amélie Wen Zhao

Àn’yīng must win the trials of the Temple of Dawn in order to save her mother. (Ages 14 to 17)

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • 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?

Characters face risks and some minor or significant characters may perish as part of the conflict.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Minor mentions of injuries or blood typical of action-oriented fantasy novels.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Mild profanity may appear, typical of YA literature.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

Features world-specific mythologies and belief systems relevant to the plot.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Romantic tension and emotional development between protagonists are present but not explicitly sexual.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Features tense situations, magical threats, and dark atmosphere consistent with the genre.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional social drinking might be depicted in fantasy settings.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Includes fantasy combat, duels, and occasional skirmishes with weapons, though not excessively graphic.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Protagonists frequently demonstrate bravery when facing overwhelming odds.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Showcases inventive magic systems and complex world-building.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Features a diverse cast reflecting the cultural inspiration behind the fantasy world.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Offers insight into themes of social hierarchy and cultural nuances in fictional worlds.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Kindness exists but is often tempered by the harsh realities of the characters' world.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Explores themes of trust, resilience, and the importance of integrity in power struggles.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters demonstrate growth, self-reliance, and moral complexity.

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 SCORPION AND THE NIGHT BLOSSOM would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE SCORPION AND THE NIGHT BLOSSOM, and what caused that change?
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