Dickens & Rumi
Cover of BETTER TOGETHER

book

BETTER TOGETHER

Christine Riccio

Sisters Jamie and Siri swap lives and confront each of their estranged parents. (Ages 12 to 18)

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? YA emotional themes include family conflict, mental-health struggles, identity questions, romance, and some mature language; treatment is generally appropriate for teens. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age14+

Strongest cautions

  • Romance3/5
  • LGBTQIA characters2/5
  • Strong language2/5

Strongest positives

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

What’s in it?

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Contains occasional mild profanity consistent with contemporary teen dialogue.

LGBTQIA characters2/5
Why this rating?

The cast includes LGBTQIA+ representation, though those identities or relationships are not the main focus of the story.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

Teen and young adult romantic relationships are a notable part of the characters' growth arcs.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

Some speculative tension and emotional distress may feel mildly unsettling, but frightening material does not appear central.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Contains brief, non-explicit mentions of dating and intimacy appropriate for the young adult genre.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional social drinking may occur, typical of a young adult setting, without being glamorized.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

No significant violence is present in this character-driven narrative.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Characters display personal courage in navigating life changes and being vulnerable with others.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Encourages creative thinking about how to solve personal problems and build community.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

The story presents characters with varied backgrounds and experiences, with diversity present across a reasonably broad cast.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Provides incidental insight into social dynamics and the challenges of early adulthood.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

The core of the book revolves around friendship and kindness between strangers.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes regarding the importance of community, support systems, and finding one's authentic self.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters are relatable and show growth, learning from mistakes and supporting one another.

Family discussion

Talk about it

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

  1. What message do you think the story most wants you to remember?
  2. How did relationships or romance affect the characters’ choices?
  3. Which choice in BETTER TOGETHER would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in BETTER TOGETHER, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to get it

Find in a libraryBuy on Bookshop.orgBuy on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate and Bookshop.org affiliate, Dickens & Rumi may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

If you liked this

Try something nearby

Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

You’re hereBETTER TOGETHER
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWSJ.K. RowlingAges 13+HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE (FULL-CAST EDITION)J.K. RowlingAges 12+HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCEJ.K. RowlingAges 13+HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIREJ.K. RowlingAges 12+

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating