Dickens & Rumi
Cover of FAKER

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FAKER

Gordon Korman

Trey grows tired of running scams with his father and longs for a different way of life. (Ages 8 to 12)

Ages 9+Source checked

Why this age? The school setting, accessible prose, and mostly social conflict suit older elementary and middle-grade readers; themes of reputation, deception, bullying, and accountability may merit adult discussion for younger readers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age9+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes1/5
  • Products & advertising1/5
  • Romance1/5

Strongest positives

  • Positive messages4/5
  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

No significant product placement.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild school-appropriate language.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Mild middle-school level crushes, not a primary focus.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

Not a scary book.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

No significant violence occurs.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Requires moral courage to tell the truth after a pattern of lies.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist's schemes require imagination, though misdirected.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

General middle-grade cast, though not specifically focused on diverse identities.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Explores themes of social dynamics and integrity.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Kindness is shown to be a valuable trait in building trust.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong focus on the importance of honesty and being true to oneself.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist learns from mistakes, showing growth throughout.

Family discussion

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What message do you think the story most wants you to remember?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in FAKER would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in FAKER, 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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