Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE DAVENPORTS

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THE DAVENPORTS

Krystal Marquis

The children of a wealthy Black family navigate romance, classism and racism in 1910 Chicago. (Ages 12 to 17)

Ages 13+Source checked

Why this age? The book features teen romance, discussions of racism and class expectations, family conflict, and emotionally mature choices, but little explicit sexual content or graphic violence. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age13+

Strongest cautions

  • Romance4/5
  • Alcohol or drugs1/5
  • Death of a character1/5

Strongest positives

  • Diverse representation4/5
  • Good role models4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

No central deaths occur in the narrative.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Language is period-appropriate and mild.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Minimal religious context; social life is the primary focus.

Romance4/5
Why this rating?

Romance is central, with multiple young characters navigating attraction, courtship, social expectations, and complicated relationships.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

The book is not written to be scary or frightening.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Contains mild romantic tension and innocent dating situations suitable for teens.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Social drinking occurs as consistent with the setting.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional tense moments regarding social conflict and historical atmosphere.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Characters take meaningful risks to pursue education, work, love, and autonomy despite racism, sexism, and family expectations.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Highlights artistic and mechanical innovation among the youth characters.

Diverse representation4/5
Why this rating?

Features a diverse cast of Black characters with varying perspectives, class standings, and ambitions.

Educational value3/5
Why this rating?

Offers insight into the Black elite social class in 1910 Chicago.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Kindness and familial loyalty are central to the character interactions.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

The story emphasizes self-determination, challenging restrictive expectations, pursuing meaningful goals, and valuing love alongside personal independence.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

The young women show ambition, loyalty, resilience, and moral agency while confronting family and societal pressures.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. Whose perspective did the story help you understand better?
  2. How did relationships or romance affect the characters’ choices?
  3. Which choice in THE DAVENPORTS would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE DAVENPORTS, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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