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Cover of THE VANISHING STAIR

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THE VANISHING STAIR

Maureen Johnson

Stevie Bell returns to Ellingham Academy to solve the Truly Devious case. (Ages 14 and up)

Ages 13+Source checked

Why this age? The novel includes murder investigations, threats, danger, grief, deception, and mature emotional themes, but limited graphic violence or sexual content. Its mystery structure also suits confident teen readers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age13+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character4/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5
  • Diverse representation3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

Historical murders are central to the mystery, with ongoing emotional consequences and concern that violence may happen again.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Some descriptions of death scenes, but not overly graphic.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild profanity and realistic teenage dialogue.

LGBTQIA characters2/5
Why this rating?

Includes LGBTQIA characters in natural, secondary roles.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Features teenage crushes and romantic relationships as a subplot.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

A threatening mystery includes murder, secret passages, stalking-like danger, and peril to teens. The suspense is sustained, but the tone is more tense than terrifying and avoids horror-level scares.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Mild romantic tension; no explicit sexual content.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Minimal references to substances, typical of a high school setting.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Includes descriptions of past crimes and some tense, suspenseful confrontations.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Stevie shows bravery by facing dangers to solve cold cases.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

The book strongly encourages curiosity, pattern recognition, deductive reasoning, and imaginative exploration of a complex mystery.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Includes a diverse cast of well-rounded characters.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Encourages deductive reasoning and critical research skills.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Characters display empathy toward one another amid personal struggles.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Emphasizes persistence, critical thinking, and the importance of seeking the truth.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Protagonist is intelligent and motivated, though occasionally reckless.

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