Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE GIRLS I'VE BEEN

book

THE GIRLS I'VE BEEN

Tess Sharpe

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for THE GIRLS I'VE BEEN by Tess Sharpe. This book is recommended for ages 15+; content notes include Frightening scenes, LGBTQIA characters, Violence; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Creativity & curiosity.

Ages 15+Source checked

Why this age? The story includes a bank hostage crisis, threats, violence, criminal activity, family abuse, trauma, sexual references, and emotionally intense danger, though it also emphasizes resilience and identity. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age15+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • LGBTQIA characters4/5
  • Violence4/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5
  • Diverse representation3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

Mentions of past deaths and the threat of death during the present robbery.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Minor references to injuries; no graphic descriptions of blood or bodily harm.

Strong language3/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild to moderate profanity used in high-stress situations.

LGBTQIA characters4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist's bisexual identity and a same-gender romantic relationship are important, affirming parts of the narrative.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

A significant romantic relationship and attraction are part of the protagonist's emotional life, alongside trust and identity questions.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

A sustained hostage situation, armed criminals, pursuit, coercion, and danger to teenagers create considerable tension and fear.

Sexual content & nudity2/5
Why this rating?

Some discussion of romantic feelings, but no graphic or explicit sexual scenes.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Very minor or incidental references.

Violence4/5
Why this rating?

Hostage-taking, threats, weapons, physical fights, and violence are central to the thriller plot, though not presented as nonstop graphic action.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Teen characters confront armed danger, coercion, traumatic memories, and controlling adults with substantial bravery and resourcefulness.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist uses deception, observation, improvisation, and strategic thinking to survive and solve problems under pressure.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

The novel gives meaningful agency to queer characters and explores varied family and relationship experiences rather than treating identity as a problem.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Offers insight into the dynamics of manipulation and survival.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Care, loyalty, and mutual support matter, especially as characters protect one another and challenge abusive relationships.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Key themes include self-definition, consent, trust, healing from abuse, resisting manipulation, and choosing one's own future.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters make risky and morally complicated choices, but the protagonist shows resourcefulness, loyalty, and growing self-determination.

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. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in THE GIRLS I'VE BEEN would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE GIRLS I'VE BEEN, 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.

If you liked this

Try something nearby

Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

You’re hereTHE GIRLS I'VE BEEN
Dark Lord of DerkholmDiana Wynne Jones · 1998Ages 14+A Forest DividedErin Hunter · 2015Ages 14+Drowned Ammet (Dalemark Quartet, Book 2)Diana Wynne Jones · 1977Ages 12+Cart and Cwidder (The Dalemark Quartet)Diana Wynne Jones · 1975Ages 12+

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