Dickens & Rumi
Cover of The Odd Life of Timothy Green

film

The Odd Life of Timothy Green

2012

A childless couple bury a box in their backyard, containing all of their wishes for an infant. Soon, a child is born, though Timothy Green is not all that he appears.

Ages 8+Source checked

Why this age? Generally suitable for children, but infertility, bullying, family estrangement, a child’s temporary existence, disappearance, and grief may be emotionally difficult for younger viewers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age8+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character2/5
  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Violence2/5

Strongest positives

  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

Minor instances of product placement related to the fictional pencil factory setting.

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

The film deals with the central character's predetermined, magical disappearance, which functions as a metaphor for loss and bereavement.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Mild insults or family-friendly rude language may occur, but there is no strong profanity or slur use.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Contains innocent, age-appropriate friendships and school crushes.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Thunderstorms are present, and the concept of a character fading away may be slightly sad or unsettling for very young children.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Brief instances of bullying at school and a minor incident at a pool party involving a kick.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Characters display courage by facing personal failures, bullying, and loss.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

The premise strongly encourages imagination, wish-making, inventive problem-solving, and seeing unusual differences as meaningful strengths.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Includes a diverse supporting cast, though the main family is not the primary vehicle for this.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Incidental lessons on botany and social dynamics.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Kindness, empathy, and forgiveness are the core themes of the narrative.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong emphasis on family, the value of parental love, resilience, and the positive impact individuals have on others.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The parents demonstrate devotion and patience, and the protagonist displays innocence and kindness.

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. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in The Odd Life of Timothy Green would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The Odd Life of Timothy Green, 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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