Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE NOVICE

book

THE NOVICE

Taran Matharu

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for THE NOVICE by Taran Matharu. This book is recommended for ages 13+; content notes include Violence, Death of a character, Frightening scenes; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Creativity & curiosity.

Ages 13+Source checked

Why this age? Fantasy violence, frightening demons, peril, grief, bullying, and emotionally intense betrayals are recurring, though sexual content and strong language are limited. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age13+

Strongest cautions

  • Violence4/5
  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

Characters die in battle and through betrayal, though it is not dwelt upon in a traumatic way.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Minor injuries and descriptions of battle wounds are present, but not overly graphic.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild swearing and insults, fitting for a teenage fantasy setting.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Includes world-specific lore and belief systems, but no real-world religious influence.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Mild romantic tension and adolescent crushes exist but are not central to the plot.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Monstrous demons, imprisonment, threats, and peril create sustained tension. The fantasy setting and action-focused tone keep it from feeling like intense horror.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mentions of alcohol consumption in tavern settings.

Violence4/5
Why this rating?

Training and battles with demons and human enemies are recurring; combat can be intense, though it remains fantasy adventure rather than graphic realism.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Facing fear, dangerous creatures, discrimination, and betrayal is central; bravery is generally tied to loyalty and protecting others.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

The demon-summoning system, magical worldbuilding, strategy, and inventive use of powers strongly encourage imaginative engagement.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Features an ethnically diverse cast in a fantasy context.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Includes vocabulary and complex narrative structures consistent with fantasy literature.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Kindness and cooperation are important, especially in forging friendships despite social barriers.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Promotes themes of integrity, equality, and the importance of challenging unfair systems.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist demonstrates determination and loyalty, though he sometimes struggles with impulsive choices.

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 handle conflict or violence? Did the characters have other choices?
  3. Which choice in THE NOVICE would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE NOVICE, 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.

If you liked this

Try something nearby

Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

You’re hereTHE NOVICE
A Forest DividedErin Hunter · 2015Ages 14+Dark Lord of DerkholmDiana Wynne Jones · 1998Ages 14+Drowned Ammet (Dalemark Quartet, Book 2)Diana Wynne Jones · 1977Ages 12+Cart and Cwidder (The Dalemark Quartet)Diana Wynne Jones · 1975Ages 12+

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