Dickens & Rumi

book

The flight of the shadow

George MacDonald · 1891

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for The flight of the shadow by George MacDonald. This book is recommended for ages 14+; content notes include Religious themes, Frightening scenes, Romance; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Creativity & curiosity.

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? The language is archaic and the themes are mature, focusing on psychological distress, spiritual conflict, and intense emotional obsession which may be difficult for younger readers to process. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age14+

Strongest cautions

  • Religious themes4/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Romance3/5

Strongest positives

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

What’s in it?

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

Death occurs within the narrative, treated with somber, philosophical gravity.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Language is formal and Victorian; no modern profanity.

Religious themes4/5
Why this rating?

Strong religious undertones reflecting the author's Christian mysticism and focus on divine grace.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

A central component of the story, focusing on the complexities of attachment, possession, and love.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

The psychological intensity and the concept of a haunted, shadowy conscience create an eerie atmosphere.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Not a featured element of the story.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Includes minor instances of conflict and some physical struggle, but not graphic.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Requires significant courage to confront one's own shadow and past mistakes.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Rich in metaphor, symbolic imagery, and imaginative psychological exploration.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Reflects the limited social scope of its time.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Offers insight into 19th-century literature and philosophical thought.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Kindness and empathy are essential to the resolution of the protagonist's conflicts.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Emphasizes the power of repentance, the struggle against inner darkness, and the ultimate necessity of love.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters undergo significant moral development and introspection.

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. What beliefs or religious ideas appear in the story? How do they influence the characters?
  3. Which choice in The flight of the shadow would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The flight of the shadow, 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 hereThe flight of the shadow
A Forest DividedErin Hunter · 2015Ages 14+Dark Lord of DerkholmDiana Wynne Jones · 1998Ages 14+Drowned Ammet (Dalemark Quartet, Book 2)Diana Wynne Jones · 1977Ages 12+Cart and Cwidder (The Dalemark Quartet)Diana Wynne Jones · 1975Ages 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