Parents need to know that there is no bodice ripping in this gothic fantasy. The most you'll find is an unsettling attraction two girls have for a young painter and some passionate kisses. There is also much discussion of the eldest daughter’s madness and the acknowledgement that it might impact her marriage prospects.
Educational value:Includes historical background about 19th-century social classes and a woman's place in society plus information about the status of orphans and the Orphan Train, life in a shipping town and as a household servant.
Positive messages:Themes of self-reliance, listening to your own intuition, and that working hard will get you what you want.
Positive role models:Hannah, the main character, is an ambitious, self-reliant girl who is hardworking, persevering, and observant. She is, however, not above breaking some rules.
Violence:Material goods are damaged; a cat is alleged killed; the eldest daughter speaks abusively and tauntingly. Some creepy suspense.
Sex:The eldest daughter fantasizes about a painter seeing her naked shoulders and kissing her. Some passionate kissing. Hannah swims naked in the sea and "deep feelings" stir.
Language:Mild utterances such as "cat piss," "damn," and "hell."
Ok so right now this book is my favorite book and it has been for like a year. This book is great I love it ecpecially the romance bettween Hannah and Stannish it's soooo cool. I love this book and I can't wait for the 2 one. This book is educational and Hannah is a great role model. The story is great but there is some violance and the eldest daughter Lila is literly insane plus an insane cat. It's a great book any one should read it but you better be at least 11 :D