 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Shiva's Fire
- By Suzanne Fisher Staples
- Genre: Coming of Age
Common Sense Media says
An introduction to India's complex social system.
Parents say
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that the minute details introduce American readers to India's complex system of social levels. Principles of Hinduism (simply explained) pervade in this well-written story.
What's the story?
A girl is born during a cyclone. Surviving villagers blame the female infant for the death and destruction. As the girl grows, she is isolated until a great master of Indian classical dance recognizes her extraordinary talents. This lyrical story encourages readers to ask how and why some people are accepted into society and some are not.
Is it any good?
The slow and descriptive literary rhythm of this meditative story line captures mature readers. Suzanne Staples' main character, Parvati, faces young adulthood in a way that feels familiar to many young readers. Is friendship and love more important than self-realization? Must a girl make sacrifices to learn her art?
Staples is known for her meticulous research: She lived in India for four years and returned there to finish the book. Her stories are so dense and her descriptions so involving, some readers may give up -- but the author does provide a useful glossary. SHIVA'S FIRE is most gripping in its tense scenes of the cyclone destruction and of a tiger's attack. The author often builds drama in a way that unnerves the reader for many pages.
Explore, discuss, enjoy
Families can talk about how Parvati is treated by her family and her community. How do you think you'd feel about her if you lived in her village? Do you know people whose talents have made it difficult for them to be accepted by their peers?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
Kid, 11 years old
December 9, 2009
AGE
Confusing for younger girls, but addictive and thought-provoking
It descibes the menstrual period, and has breif, minor violence, but overall it's very well written, and in complete detail. Perfectly addictive! Some Indian words are confusing though, but the book I read had a glossary(extremely helpful!)
Was this review useful?
|
|
| Author: | Suzanne Fisher Staples |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Coming of Age |
| Publisher: | Farrar, Straus and Giroux |
| Publication date: | January 1, 2000 |
| Number of pages: | 288 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 12 - 14 |
Review It
Great alternatives handpicked by our editors
More from Common Sense Media
Top advice and articles
