Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE SKULL

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THE SKULL

Jon Klassen

After running away from home, Otilla discovers an old mansion whose only occupant is a talking skull. (Ages 6 to 9)

Ages 6+Source checked

Why this age? The story is accessible to young readers but includes a fleeing child, a skull, eerie isolation, and macabre imagery. The tone is humorous and gentle rather than intensely frightening. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age6+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence1/5

Strongest positives

  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Courage & resilience3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist is a skull, implying a past death, which is treated with philosophical, calm curiosity rather than trauma.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

A lonely house, a skull, and an initially unsettling encounter create moderate spooky tension, softened by humor and warmth.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

A headless skeleton hunts a skull, representing a mild, abstract threat.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Otilla shows bravery in the face of the unknown and the nightly danger.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

The inventive premise, unusual visual storytelling, and playful problem-solving strongly encourage imagination and interpretation.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

It may support discussion of emotions, storytelling, and visual interpretation, but teaching factual knowledge is not its main purpose.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

The central theme is Otilla's care for the lonely skull.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

The story promotes kindness, helping others in need, and facing one's fears.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Otilla is a proactive, kind, and courageous character.

Family discussion

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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. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in THE SKULL would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE SKULL, 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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