Age rating and parents' guide:Scythe
by Neal Shusterman
Ages 12–14
Scythe by Neal Shusterman is best for children aged 12–14. It has strong violence, some scary moments, a little romance and no bad language. Worth knowing: Death themes central; 13+ recommended.
In a future world where humanity has conquered disease, aging, and death, the population is kept in check by Scythes—individuals chosen to end lives according to strict moral codes. Teens Citra and Rowan are reluctantly chosen as apprentices to a revered Scythe, plunging them into a complex world of political intrigue, ethical dilemmas, and deadly competition. Readers are drawn to this thought-provoking dystopian thriller for its rich world-building, high-stakes suspense, and the moral questions it asks about power and human nature.
Content ratings
How much of each a parent can expect, from none to strong.
- Violence
- Strong
- Scary moments
- Moderate
- Romance
- Mild
- Bad language
- None
Worth knowing: Death themes central; 13+ recommended
Content checked by Dhiraj Bodade, co-founder of Bookstaken, on .
At a glance
- Novel
- Part of the Arc of a Scythe series
- A demanding read, best for confident readers
- Mostly text
- Emotionally intense
Great for kids who like
- Science
Reading mood
- Thoughtful
- Suspenseful
Good to talk about
- Emotions & empathy
- Science
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