Dickens & Rumi

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The Taking (The Taking #1)

Kimberly Derting · 2014

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for The Taking (The Taking #1) by Kimberly Derting. This book is content notes include Death of a character, Frightening scenes, Romance; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Creativity & curiosity.

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Romance3/5

Strongest positives

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

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

Implied or mentioned deaths of peers and the mystery surrounding missing persons.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Minimal; minor injuries may be described in the context of action.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild profanity appropriate for the YA genre.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

Standard YA romantic subplot involving the protagonist's relationships.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Suspenseful alien-abduction mystery and threats may feel frightening, especially around missing people, but the tone is more sci-fi adventure than intense horror.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild; typical teen crush scenarios.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mention or peripheral use; not a focus.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Includes some tense moments, physical struggle, and danger related to the sci-fi plot.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Central to the plot as characters face unknown, powerful forces.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Features unique sci-fi concepts and mystery-solving elements.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

General representation within a typical high school setting.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Mainly entertainment-focused science fiction.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Interpersonal support between friends is shown.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Themes include identity, trust, resilience, loyalty, coping with loss, and confronting frightening uncertainty.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Protagonist shows bravery and determination in 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. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in The Taking (The Taking #1) would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The Taking (The Taking #1), and what caused that change?
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