Song of Silver, Flame Like Night
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Amélie Wen Zhao's Song of Silver, Flame Like Night is the first of a planned fantasy series based on Chinese mythology, folklore, and philosophy that chronicles a 16-year-old girl's search for answers about her past. Violence is mostly in the fantasy realm using magical powers against magical beings, as well as weapons like arrows, swords, and knives. Blood is mentioned but not described in detail, and there's no other gore. Pain is described in detail. Several instances of sexual assault in the past are mentioned briefly and vaguely. Strong language includes "s--t" and "bitch." There are some mild romantic dynamics and a few kisses described vaguely.
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What's the Story?
SONG OF SILVER, FLAME LIKE NIGHT tells the story of 16-year-old Lan, who was orphaned 12 years ago when an invading army destroyed her home and everyone in it. Right before she died, her mother imprinted a magic seal onto Lan's wrist, but Lan has no idea why or what it means. When a mysterious and malevolent magician tries to capture Lan and destroys the teahouse where she works, Lan sets out to find the answers to magic seal. Little could she have imagined that the search for those answers could lead to nothing more or less than the destruction, or the salvation, of the entire kingdom.
Is It Any Good?
This is a well-written, solid, and intriguing start to a fantasy series. The world building in Song of Silver, Flame Like Night is vivid and deep, but easy to understand and feel familiar in. Colorful characters and exciting, sometimes hair-raising, adventures keep the pages turning, especially the way the relationship between Lan and Zen develops. Teens will relate to Lan as she searches for answers about herself and her past. Fantasy fans will get a lot of food for thought about power, its uses, and the consequences of abusing it. The story ends at a crossroad that will have fans eager for the next installment.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about role models in Song of Silver, Flame Like Night? Which characters are positive role models? Do they have any weaknesses? How do they demonstrate courage, perseverance, self- control, and teamwork?
What about the violence? Is it too much? Does it make a difference if it's in the real world or the fantasy realm? Why, or why not?
Fantasy stories are very popular. What do we love about them? What are some of your favorites? How does this one compare?
Book Details
- Author: Amelie Wen Zhao
- Genre: Fantasy
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Adventures, Great Girl Role Models, Monsters, Ghosts, and Vampires
- Character Strengths: Courage, Perseverance, Self-control, Teamwork
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Random House Children's Books
- Publication date: January 3, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 14 - 17
- Number of pages: 480
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: January 3, 2023
Our Editors Recommend
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A Magic Steeped in Poison: The Book of Tea, Book 1
Unique fantasy has intrigue, magic, and tea.
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Forest of a Thousand Lanterns: Rise of the Empress, Book 1
Vivid dark-fantasy series off to a compelling start.
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Six Crimson Cranes
Fascinating fantasy steeped in East Asian folklore.
For kids who love Asian characters and mythology
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