Dickens & Rumi
Cover of ONE OF US IS NEXT

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ONE OF US IS NEXT

Karen M. McManus

In this sequel to “One of Us Is Lying,” a deadly game of truth or dare via text now plagues the students of Bayview High. (Ages 14 to 17)

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? The novel combines murder threats, suspense, grief, bullying, and emotionally intense teen relationships. Its YA prose is accessible, but the thriller material may be upsetting for younger readers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age14+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character4/5
  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • Strong language3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Diverse representation3/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

Contains common real-world cultural references.

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

Fatal consequences and murder-related events are central to the plot, with grief and emotional fallout for the characters.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

The deaths are described in the context of a thriller, but not overly graphic.

Strong language3/5
Why this rating?

Includes typical teen dialogue with moderate profanity.

LGBTQIA characters2/5
Why this rating?

Features LGBTQIA characters in naturalistic, non-centralized roles.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Teen dating and relationships are present but secondary to the mystery.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

Anonymous threats, escalating dares, danger to teenagers, and uncertainty about who may be targeted create sustained suspense.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Contains mild romantic tension and occasional discussion of relationships.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional alcohol or substance use by teen characters mentioned.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Threats, confrontations, coercive truth-or-dare challenges, and dangerous situations are central to the mystery; violence is thriller-oriented rather than constant.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters demonstrate significant bravery in facing an anonymous threat.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Involves complex puzzle-solving and mystery elements.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Includes a diverse cast of characters with varied backgrounds.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Contains elements of deductive reasoning within the mystery genre.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Displays of friendship and cooperation during crisis.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Explores consequences of secrets and the impact of social media.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters show resilience and resourcefulness despite high-stress situations.

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. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in ONE OF US IS NEXT would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in ONE OF US IS NEXT, and what caused that change?
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Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

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Dark Lord of DerkholmDiana Wynne Jones · 1998Ages 14+The Secret AdversaryAgatha Christie · 1922Ages 13+A Forest DividedErin Hunter · 2015Ages 14+Drowned Ammet (Dalemark Quartet, Book 2)Diana Wynne Jones · 1977Ages 12+

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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