Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE HEIRS

book

THE HEIRS

Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé

The five adopted children of the billionaire Leontes Button are suspects in his murder. (Ages 14 to 18)

Source checked

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Diverse representation4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising2/5
Why this rating?

The story explores wealthy students’ lifestyles and consumption, but it does not appear to promote particular products or shopping.

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

A student’s death drives the mystery and affects the main characters, though graphic depiction is not indicated.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Injuries and violent consequences are referenced, but graphic blood or detailed bodily damage does not appear to be emphasized.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Contemporary teen dialogue includes some mild profanity or name-calling, without evidence of frequent strong language or slurs.

LGBTQIA characters2/5
Why this rating?

LGBTQIA characters are part of the ensemble, though their prominence in the overall story appears limited.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Teen crushes and romantic dynamics are present but appear secondary to the mystery and relationships among the characters.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

High tension, psychological threats, and the fear of being targeted by powerful forces.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Some mild innuendo or high-school social references may occur, but explicit sexual content is not indicated.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Social substance use is reportedly implied or casually referenced among students; the extent and frequency are unclear.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

The murder mystery includes tense situations and physical confrontations. Violence appears meaningful to the plot rather than constant or gratuitous.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonists show substantial bravery by confronting powerful people and pursuing the truth despite serious risks.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Solving the mystery requires investigation, deduction, and uncovering hidden connections, encouraging curiosity and problem-solving.

Diverse representation4/5
Why this rating?

The ensemble is described as diverse, with characters given individual identities and agency rather than serving only as background figures.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

The book offers incidental insight into wealth, class, and power, but teaching factual knowledge or skills is not its main purpose.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Loyalty and care appear in the central friendship, though the threatening mystery and social conflict limit the story’s emphasis on kindness.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Explores themes of social justice, truth, and accountability.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters show loyalty and courage while investigating wrongdoing, although some choices are reactive and shaped by dangerous circumstances.

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

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