Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE NEAR WITCH

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THE NEAR WITCH

V. E. Schwab

Lexi investigates the mysterious disappearance of children in the town of Near. (Ages 14 and up)

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? Dark supernatural danger, missing children, frightening imagery, death and grief, and emotionally intense suspense make this better suited to mature teens, though sexual content is minimal. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age14+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence3/5

Strongest positives

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

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

Themes of grief and loss are central, with backstories involving the death of characters.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Some descriptions of eerie atmosphere, but lacks graphic violence or bodily injury.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Contains very mild language, typical of young adult fiction.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Focuses on folklore and magic rather than religious practice.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Features a burgeoning, gentle romantic connection between the protagonists.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Eerie folklore, a threatening supernatural presence, and children disappearing create sustained suspense. The fear is atmospheric and tense rather than graphic or relentlessly terrifying.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Includes instances of magical conflict and mild peril related to the mystery.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters repeatedly confront frightening forces and community pressure, showing bravery through loyalty and principled action.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

The imaginative folklore, atmospheric worldbuilding, and supernatural mystery strongly invite creative thought and speculation.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Characters are depicted in a fantasy setting; limited range of real-world identity markers.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Encourages interest in narrative structure and myth-building.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Emphasis is placed on empathy and protecting those who are vulnerable.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Explores themes of community, the power of stories, and belonging.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist demonstrates resilience, curiosity, and loyalty.

Family discussion

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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 NEAR WITCH would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE NEAR WITCH, and what caused that change?
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Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

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THE KEEPERDavid BaldacciAges 12+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+

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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