Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE MADNESS UNDERNEATH

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THE MADNESS UNDERNEATH

Maureen Johnson

Rory must stop ghosts from killing more people in London.

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? Best suited to teens because of murder investigations, threatening supernatural encounters, violence, grief, and sustained suspense, though sexual content and language are limited. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

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At a glance

Recommended age14+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character4/5
  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • Violence3/5

Strongest positives

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

What’s in it?

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

Death is a central theme, with the protagonist dealing with the aftermath of past fatalities.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Some descriptions of injuries related to the supernatural plot, though not gratuitous.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Mild profanity typical of contemporary YA fiction.

LGBTQIA characters1/5
Why this rating?

Includes minor representation in the supporting cast.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Not a central focus of the narrative.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Features age-appropriate teen romantic developments.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

Ghosts, sinister supernatural forces, danger, stalking, and tense investigations create sustained frightening atmosphere.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild romantic references, nothing explicit.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Minimal or incidental references.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Contains scenes of supernatural combat, threats of bodily harm, and intense confrontations.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Central to the plot as characters face dangerous supernatural threats.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Features creative supernatural world-building.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Moderate representation in the ensemble cast.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Incidental historical context regarding London.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Themes of friendship and caring for others.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Themes of resilience, duty, and facing fear.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Protagonist shows bravery and growth under pressure.

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 THE MADNESS UNDERNEATH would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE MADNESS UNDERNEATH, 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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