Dickens & Rumi

book

The cat who talked to ghosts

Lilian Jackson Braun · 1990

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for The cat who talked to ghosts by Lilian Jackson Braun. This book is content notes include Death of a character, Frightening scenes, Violence; positive qualities include Good role models, Positive messages.

Source checked

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Violence2/5

Strongest positives

  • Good role models3/5
  • Positive messages3/5
  • Courage & resilience2/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

The novel is not structured to promote brands, products, or purchasing behavior.

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

A death is central to the mystery and prompts investigation and grief, though the deaths are not shown graphically or dwelled on in extreme detail.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

No graphic gore or detailed physical injury is present.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Language is polite and standard, typical of traditional mystery fiction.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Religion is not a focal point of the narrative.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Brief mentions of social relationships, but no central romantic plot.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

The premise involves ghosts, but it is treated with a light, inquisitive tone rather than horror.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional social drinking by adult characters.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Violence is minimal, often involving threats or off-page criminal activity common to cozy mysteries.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience2/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist demonstrates intellectual bravery in solving mysteries.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Encourages analytical thinking and curiosity.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Features a range of small-town character archetypes typical of the genre.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Provides insight into small-town dynamics and historical research.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Characters engage in standard social interactions.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Themes of justice and the importance of investigation and observation.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Qwilleran is a persistent and curious protagonist.

Family discussion

Talk about it

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

  1. Which character was the best role model, and what did they do that you admired?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in The cat who talked to ghosts would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The cat who talked to ghosts, 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.

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