Dickens & Rumi
Cover of SOLO

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SOLO

Kwame Alexander and Mary Rand Hess

The difficult life of a seventeen-year-old rock star, who goes on a journey to Ghana, told in poetic verse. (Ages 13 to 17)

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? The novel addresses parental alcoholism, grief, abandonment, sex-related relationship concerns, racial identity, and emotionally intense family conflict in mature poetic language. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age14+

Strongest cautions

  • Alcohol or drugs4/5
  • Death of a character3/5
  • Romance3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

Mentions of music culture and brands typical of the setting.

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

A parent’s death is an important part of the protagonist’s backstory and emotional development, with lasting effects even though it is not depicted directly.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild profanity consistent with contemporary teen dialogue.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

Faith, church connections, and spiritual reflection appear through characters and family background, but religion is not the central subject.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

Contains typical teenage romantic interests and crushes.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Contains moments of emotional tension, but no horror elements.

Sexual content & nudity2/5
Why this rating?

Very mild references to teenage attraction.

Alcohol or drugs4/5
Why this rating?

A parent’s serious alcohol addiction is central, including its effects on family life and the protagonist.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

Minor instances of confrontation and typical teenage conflict, no graphic violence.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Blade shows significant courage in confronting his family history and making life changes.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Music and poetry are central to the protagonist’s voice, self-expression, and understanding of his life.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Black characters and Ghanaian heritage are central, with culture and identity treated as meaningful parts of the story.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Exposure to musical concepts and cultural travel themes.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Themes of empathy and building connections are central.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

It emphasizes accountability, healing, family truth, cultural identity, forgiveness, and making responsible choices.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Blade is a resilient protagonist navigating difficult family circumstances.

Family discussion

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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 were alcohol or drugs portrayed, and what consequences did the story show?
  3. Which choice in SOLO would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in SOLO, 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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