• Is it age appropriate?

  About our ratings

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  Not age appropriate for kids under 8, age appropriate for kids over 10; suggested age 10.

• Is it any good?

  4.0

• Common Sense says

  Gentle charmer of boy redeemed by cancer patient.

Why We Rated This for Ages 10 and Up

The good stuff

• Educational value:

  The story gives a picture of what cancer treatment can be like, and of the pleasures of being part of the community that raises money for a cure, and includes links to further information at the end.
• Messages:

  The author set out to make a statement about cancer, and ended up delivering clear messages about the importance of family and community, of engagement with the world, of savoring the joys of life, and of selflessly taking care of friends.
• Role models:

  Finn and his friend Matthew work hard to help and take care of their new neighbor, who is undergoing cancer treatment.

What to watch out for

• Violence:

  Not an issue.
• Sex:

  A reference to "boobs," and to an older couple "living in sin." A group of adults and teens go skinny-dipping.
• Language:

  Not an issue.
• Consumerism:

  Electronics brand mentioned.
• Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

  Beer drinking.

What Parents Need to Know

About Notes from the Dog

Families Can Talk About