Dickens & Rumi

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A DEADLY GAME OF MAGIC

Joan Lowery Nixon · 1983

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for A DEADLY GAME OF MAGIC by Joan Lowery Nixon. This book is content notes include Death of a character, Frightening scenes, Violence; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Creativity & curiosity.

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

The danger of death is a central plot device, creating stakes for the characters.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild language, typical of 1980s young adult literature.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Light teenage romantic tension is present but not the primary focus.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

The setting is atmospheric and tense, designed to induce fear through isolation and mystery.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Includes scenes of psychological manipulation and threats of physical harm, though it remains largely suspenseful rather than graphically violent.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Courage is a major theme as characters face their fears to overcome the antagonist.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Encourages creative thinking to solve puzzles and escape traps.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

The available assessment suggests limited representation across backgrounds and identities, but the score is tentative without passages or reliable plot and character details.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Encourages logic and critical thinking through mystery solving.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Cooperation is essential for survival, promoting teamwork.

Positive messages2/5
Why this rating?

The book emphasizes critical thinking and the importance of resourcefulness in difficult situations.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters display bravery and collaboration under pressure.

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 did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in A DEADLY GAME OF MAGIC would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in A DEADLY GAME OF MAGIC, 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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