Dickens & Rumi

book

Below

Megan McKinlay · 2013

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for Below by Megan McKinlay. This book is content notes include Frightening scenes; positive qualities include Creativity & curiosity, Courage & resilience.

Source checked

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes1/5

Strongest positives

  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Courage & resilience2/5
  • Good role models2/5

What’s in it?

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

Some scenes are atmospheric and slightly mysterious, which may feel eerie to very sensitive toddlers.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience2/5
Why this rating?

The child’s exploration of an unfamiliar space suggests mild bravery, without evidence of major danger or hardship.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Highly imaginative concept that encourages children to look at their surroundings differently.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Good for encouraging critical thinking and narrative engagement.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

The story appears gentle and caring, though limited information prevents a stronger assessment of empathy or cooperation.

Positive messages2/5
Why this rating?

Encourages imagination and accepting the natural progression of growing up.

Good role models2/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist is a curious child, presented in a relatable way.

Family discussion

Talk about it

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

  1. What was the most imaginative idea in the story, and what would you add to it?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in Below would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Below, 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.

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