Dickens & Rumi
Cover of INDEPENDENT STUDY

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INDEPENDENT STUDY

Joelle Charbonneau

Cia and her friends prepare to rebuild their post-apocalyptic society.

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? The book contains dystopian violence, intense psychological pressure, themes of state-sponsored murder, and high-stakes peril, making it most suitable for mature teen readers. 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 character4/5
  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • Violence3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

Death is a central theme; characters are frequently killed as part of the system's cull.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Includes descriptions of injuries and the aftermath of violence without excessive lingering on viscera.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild language consistent with teen angst in high-stress situations.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Includes teen romantic subplots that are emotional but not sexually graphic.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

High-tension atmosphere with constant surveillance, fear of betrayal, and threats of execution.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

No depiction of drug or alcohol use.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Characters face physical tests that involve combat, life-threatening scenarios, and potential elimination.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Cia repeatedly confronts danger, manipulation, and powerful authorities while trying to protect others and act ethically.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Inventive problem-solving is required for the characters to survive the tests.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Limited focus on diverse character identities beyond general societal roles.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

The story may encourage reflection on ethics, politics, and social control, but it is not designed to teach formal knowledge or skills.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Kindness exists but is dangerous in this environment; characters must choose it over survival.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

It explores integrity, freedom, propaganda, institutional power, trust, moral responsibility, and resisting unjust systems.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Cia serves as a strong, determined protagonist who stands up for her values.

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 INDEPENDENT STUDY would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in INDEPENDENT STUDY, 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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