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King Midas

Robert Newby; Nathaniel Hawthorne · 1990

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for King Midas by Robert Newby; Nathaniel Hawthorne. This book is recommended for ages 6+; content notes include Frightening scenes, Death of a character, Religious themes; positive qualities include Positive messages, Creativity & curiosity.

Ages 6+Source checked

Why this age? The plot is accessible to young readers, but Midas’s transformation of food and his daughter into gold can be unsettling and benefits from adult explanation. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age6+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Death of a character1/5
  • Religious themes1/5

Strongest positives

  • Positive messages4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5
  • Educational value2/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

While the daughter is frozen as a statue, it is not a permanent or violent death.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Features mythological deities typical of Greek folklore.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

There is a brief moment of distress when the daughter turns to gold, which may be sad for younger children.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience1/5
Why this rating?

Requires some courage for the King to repent and seek redemption.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

The magical wish, vivid transformations, and imaginative mythic premise strongly invite creative thought and discussion.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Excellent introduction to classic Greek mythology and moral storytelling.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Kindness and empathy are the lessons the King learns in the end.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Clearly warns against greed and teaches gratitude, moderation, responsibility, and learning from mistakes.

Good role models2/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist shows a lack of wisdom initially but eventually learns humility.

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

  1. What message do you think the story most wants you to remember?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in King Midas would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in King Midas, 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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