Dickens & Rumi

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Picture the dead

Adele Griffin · 2010

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for Picture the dead by Adele Griffin. This book is content notes include Death of a character, Frightening scenes, Religious themes; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Creativity & curiosity.

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character4/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Religious themes2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

Death and the mourning process are central themes of the story.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Some descriptions of death and mourning, but not gratuitous.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Generally clean, period-appropriate language.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

Spiritualism and cultural views on death are explored.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Mild romantic interests relevant to a young adult narrative.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Atmospheric gothic tone with supernatural occurrences.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Not a focus of the story.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Violence is mostly historical context related to the Civil War, not explicit.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist shows bravery in uncovering hidden truths.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Encourages interest in historical mysteries and literature.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Historical setting limits contemporary diversity representation.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

The historical setting offers context about the American Civil War, mourning practices, photography, and spiritualism.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Friendship, care for grieving people, and emotional support are meaningful parts of the story, despite conflict and secrecy.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Explores the importance of honesty and facing the truth about loss.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist demonstrates persistence and resilience.

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 Picture the dead would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Picture the dead, and what caused that change?
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