Dickens & Rumi

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Thick as thieves

Megan Whalen Turner · 2017

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for Thick as thieves by Megan Whalen Turner. This book is recommended for ages 13+; content notes include Frightening scenes, Violence, Death of a character; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Creativity & curiosity.

Ages 13+Source checked

Why this age? Complex political narration and themes of slavery, coercion, betrayal, and danger suit mature teen readers; violence is generally not graphically described and sexual content is minimal. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age13+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence3/5
  • Death of a character2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Diverse representation3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

Characters die in the course of the political conflict and journey, though not graphically described.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Some brief mentions of injuries and physical punishment typical of a survival fantasy.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild language; limited to infrequent harsh words or insults.

LGBTQIA characters1/5
Why this rating?

There is a subtle, non-explicit exploration of queer themes regarding the relationship between the main characters.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

Religious practices and the influence of gods within the fantasy world are central to the culture and plot.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Minimal focus on romance; the relationship dynamics are primarily based on trust, loyalty, and manipulation.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Captivity, intimidation, pursuit, and danger create sustained tension, though the story is not focused on horror or supernatural scares.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

No explicit sexual content or significant innuendo.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Infrequent mentions of consumption of alcohol in a social or historical context.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Includes descriptions of skirmishes, threats of execution, and consequences of a slave rebellion.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters exhibit significant courage in escaping slavery and choosing their own path.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Rich worldbuilding, layered perspectives, coded communication, strategy, and imaginative political fantasy strongly invite creative engagement.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Diverse world-building involving various cultures, social ranks, and complex individual identities.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Encourages critical thinking regarding political strategy and cultural anthropology.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Kindness is shown through acts of sacrifice and trust, often contrasted with a harsh society.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Focuses on the importance of autonomy, truth, and the complexity of shifting moral allegiances.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Protagonists show resilience and integrity despite their difficult circumstances.

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. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in Thick as thieves would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Thick as thieves, 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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