Dickens & Rumi

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Vicious

Sara Shepard · 2014

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for Vicious by Sara Shepard. This book is content notes include Death of a character, Frightening scenes, Romance; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Positive messages.

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character4/5
  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • Romance3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Positive messages3/5
  • Creativity & curiosity2/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

References to popular fashion and consumer goods are common in the Pretty Little Liars series.

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

The mystery is centered around past and present deaths; themes of grief and trauma are central.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Mentions of injuries and death are present but not described in graphic detail.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild profanity and harsh language used in moments of conflict.

LGBTQIA characters2/5
Why this rating?

A main character's lesbian identity is part of the story, though LGBTQIA themes are not the central focus.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

Teen attraction, relationships, jealousy and betrayal are recurring, but the mystery remains the main focus.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

Persistent psychological suspense and fear of being hunted by an unknown adversary.

Sexual content & nudity2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional references to teen dating and mild intimacy consistent with YA novels.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Underage drinking and drug use appear in social contexts, sometimes associated with risky behavior.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Includes threats, physical altercations, and dangerous situations surrounding the mystery.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Characters show bravery in standing up to their stalkers and seeking the truth.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Encourages interest in mystery-solving and deductive thinking.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

The core cast has varied backgrounds and family situations, but the book is not chiefly focused on broad representation.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Friends demonstrate loyalty and support to each other despite their many conflicts.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Focuses on the consequences of secrets and lies, and the importance of resilience.

Good role models2/5
Why this rating?

Characters are flawed teenagers often making poor choices, but demonstrating growth over time.

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