Dickens & Rumi

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Up from Jericho Tel

E. L. Konigsburg · 1986

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for Up from Jericho Tel by E. L. Konigsburg. This book is content notes include Death of a character, Alcohol or drugs, Frightening scenes; positive qualities include Creativity & curiosity, Courage & resilience.

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Alcohol or drugs2/5
  • Frightening scenes2/5

Strongest positives

  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

Dead animals and the deceased former movie star are central to the plot and its themes of grief and meaning.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Mention of burying dead animals, but not in a graphic or gory manner.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

The available information suggests mild, age-appropriate language without strong profanity or slurs.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

A supernatural encounter, a graveyard, and a dead woman may be eerie, though the tone appears more mysterious than terrifying.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Cigarettes are repeatedly used as payment or a plot motivation, though the summary does not indicate that children smoke.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

No significant violence is present in the narrative.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

The children show bravery in navigating their mysterious assignment.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

The children invent a cemetery, investigate an unusual mystery, and engage imaginatively with a supernatural world.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Features a diverse set of protagonists in a traditional setting.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Touches on themes of acting, history, and personal growth.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Empathy and cooperation are central to the protagonists' bond.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

The story highlights friendship, grief, purpose, and understanding what it takes to be a star.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonists grow and develop as they face challenges together.

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 Up from Jericho Tel would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Up from Jericho Tel, and what caused that change?
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