Scythe
Book • 2016
by Neal Shusterman
A world with no hunger, no disease, no war, no misery: humanity has conquered all those things, and has even conquered death. Now Scythes are the only ones who can end life--and they are commanded to do so, in order to keep the size of the population under control.
Citra and Rowan are chosen to apprentice to a scythe--a role that neither wants. These teens must master the "art" of taking life, knowing that the consequence of failure could mean losing their own.
Scythe is the first novel of a thrilling new series by National Book Award-winning author Neal Shusterman in which Citra and Rowan learn that a perfect world comes only with a heavy price.
Scythe
Book • 2016
by Neal Shusterman
A world with no hunger, no disease, no war, no misery: humanity has conquered all those things, and has even conquered death. Now Scythes are the only ones who can end life--and they are commanded to do so, in order to keep the size of the population under control.
Citra and Rowan are chosen to apprentice to a scythe--a role that neither wants. These teens must master the "art" of taking life, knowing that the consequence of failure could mean losing their own.
Scythe is the first novel of a thrilling new series by National Book Award-winning author Neal Shusterman in which Citra and Rowan learn that a perfect world comes only with a heavy price.
Suggested Age
Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.
The premise involves teens being trained in the 'art of killing,' and the consequences of failure include losing their own lives. This mature theme and the concept of a controlled death system require a higher level of cognitive understanding.
Content Safety Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content
Sex & Nudity
the available information does not mention any romantic or sexual content, suggesting it's not a focus of the story.
Violence & Gore
The premise involves teens learning the 'art of killing' and facing the potential loss of their own lives, indicating moderate to strong depictions of violence and the consequences of taking life. While not explicitly graphic in the available information, the theme implies a significant presence of violence.
Profanity
While not detailed in the available information, books of this genre and target audience often include mild profanity. We can anticipate occasional mild curse words like 'd*mn' or 'h*ll' being used in moments of stress or frustration.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
the available information focuses on a utopian society that has conquered disease and misery, and the premise of Scythes. There is no indication of substance use being a theme.
Frightening Scenes
The concept of a perfect world with a heavy price, and teens being forced to learn to kill while facing their own mortality, suggests intense psychological and thematic material that could be disturbing for younger viewers.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
Imagine a world where people don't get sick or old, but special 'Scythes' have to choose who dies to keep the world from getting too crowded. Two teens, Citra and Rowan, are forced to learn how to be Scythes, even though they don't want to, and the stakes are incredibly high.
Content Warnings
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
This book deals with the concept of intentional death ('gleaning') as a necessary societal function. While not graphic, the themes are somber and explore complex ethical questions that may be challenging for younger or more sensitive readers.
What Kids Can Learn
Readers can explore themes of morality, the value of life, the challenges of authority, and the importance of personal integrity when faced with difficult choices.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
Appeals to adults and mature teens with its thought-provoking dystopian premise and exploration of profound philosophical questions about society and humanity.
Positives & Learning
What makes this content valuable for children
Positive Messages
Explores the ethical dilemmas of a seemingly perfect society and highlights the importance of individual conscience and the struggle for humanity in extreme circumstances.
Positive Role Models
Citra and Rowan grapple with morally complex decisions and demonstrate resilience and a commitment to their values, even when faced with immense pressure and danger.
Diverse Representations
No diverse representation content indicated in available information.
Educational Value
Prompts critical thinking about societal control, ethics, philosophy of life and death, and the nature of a 'perfect' world.
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