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Skellig

(1998, Fiction - Family Life, Written by David Almond)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 9, age appropriate for kids over 11; suggested age 11.
  • Is it any good?

    5.0
  • Common Sense says

    This gorgeously weird novel captivates readers.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 11 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Not an issue.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Michael and his family are afraid his baby sister is dying.
  • Sex:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Occasional, mild, religiously themed swearing.
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Skellig

Parents need to know that this is a beautifully written, unique, moody story that has strong emotional appeal for avid readers. Flowing language conveys a story of two children determined to help another, and to grow closer to each other.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the mysterious Skellig and whether he's part animal, part human or something altogether different. Do you think Skellig is an angel? Do you believe in angels? Why or why not? If you had to draw a picture of Skellig, what would he look like? Parents and kids might also enjoy researching the works of English poet William Blake, whom Mina refers to on several occasions.

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Our Members Say

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  •  I think this book is

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See all 14 member reviews

Most Recent Reviews

  1. Teen Reviewer Age 15
    I rate this title on for age 9 and give it 3.0
    My concerns are:
    • Inappropriate language

    • My highlights are:
    • Educational

    The book is Not so good or bad its All RIGHT

    I love the book In the starting the book is ok but in the middle the swear like for EX: bloody

  2. Parent Reviewer
    I rate this title iffy for age 14 and give it 3.0
    My concerns are:
    • Excessive violence
    • Inappropriate sexual content

    my amzing descripion of this foul book

    rubbish and it is settting a bad influence on the children and know they have made a film about it it is absolutely foul

  3. Kid Reviewer Age 12
    I rate this title on for age 6 and give it 4.0

    Spooky!

    I thought this haunting story was really strange. Almond never provides clear answers or even facts - just the views of a depressed ten-year-old. The author centres the whole story around birds - owls, blackbirds and even angels. I guess every reader will have a different interpretation of this moving tale. I really enjoyed this book and it was written fabulously, however I feel like I've outgrown it although I appreciate the level and style of Almond's writing.

  4. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in North Carolina
    I rate this title on for age 8 and give it 4.0

    I Loved this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    I read this book in my Reading class. I am in the 6th grade and my teacher gave us this book to read with partners.At first I really didnt understand it because they are from England.It is a great book that teaches a valuble lesson about how not giving up can help someone.

  5. Kid Reviewer Age 12
    Lives in Massachusetts
    I rate this title on for age 11 and give it 1.0

    ....

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