Dickens & Rumi

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The secret fiend

Shane Peacock · 2010

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for The secret fiend by Shane Peacock. This book is content notes include Death of a character, Frightening scenes, Graphic injury; 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 scenes4/5
  • Graphic injury3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Good role models4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

Murder is central to the plot, with investigation of death and its consequences forming much of the story’s emotional weight.

Graphic injury3/5
Why this rating?

Includes descriptions of crime scenes and fatal injuries associated with the murders in the story.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Features some period-appropriate insults and harsh language, but no strong profanity.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Mentions of religion are incidental and reflective of the historical setting.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Contains very minor, age-appropriate budding romantic interests for the teenage protagonist.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

Atmospheric tension and the threat posed by a serial killer create a consistently ominous and frightening tone.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mention of historical social drinking or tobacco use by adults.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Features descriptions of murders and physical altercations consistent with a historical thriller mystery.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist shows significant bravery in facing dangerous individuals and situations.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

The investigation strongly encourages imaginative thinking, close observation, hypothesis-building and inventive problem-solving.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Reflects the historical socioeconomic strata of 1860s London, though lacks modern diversity.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Provides a glimpse into 19th-century London, though the primary focus is entertainment.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Characters demonstrate loyalty and concern for one another amidst dark circumstances.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Focuses on the value of intellect, perseverance, and the importance of seeking justice.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

Sherlock is portrayed as a brilliant, if flawed, young man dedicated to solving problems.

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