Dickens & Rumi
Cover of SOLITAIRE

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SOLITAIRE

Alice Oseman

Tori Spring is determined to find out who's behind the blog called Solitaire, which has caused serious pranks at her school. (Ages 14 to 18)

Ages 15+Source checked

Why this age? The novel has mature emotional content, including depression, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, bullying, family conflict, and substance use. Its tone and themes suit mature teens more than younger readers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age15+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • LGBTQIA characters3/5
  • Romance3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Kindness & empathy3/5
  • Positive messages3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

Suicide and suicidal feelings are addressed seriously, but no character dies and death is not depicted graphically.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

There is no graphic gore or blood.

Strong language3/5
Why this rating?

Some mild, realistic teenage swearing is present.

LGBTQIA characters3/5
Why this rating?

LGBTQIA characters and relationships are prominent in the story’s social world, including Charlie Spring and his boyfriend Nick.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

Features budding teenage romance and emotional development between the leads.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Ominous pranks, threats, school danger, and intense psychological distress create sustained unease, though the book is not primarily horror.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Contains very mild teenage discussion of relationships; no explicit sexual content.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mention of teenage party settings with minor substance reference.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Includes some school-related pranks and minor scuffles, but no graphic violence.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Characters must show internal courage to face their personal battles.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Encourages creative expression and looking at life from unique perspectives.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Features a diverse cast in terms of personality and identity.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Offers insight into the teenage experience of anxiety and depression.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Kindness and empathy are key to the character growth presented.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

It emphasizes taking mental health seriously, recognizing isolation, seeking help, and understanding that destructive behavior has consequences.

Good role models2/5
Why this rating?

Characters are flawed, realistic, and learning to grow through their struggles.

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