Burn

Parents need to know that Burn is a dragon fantasy set in the United States in the 1950s by veteran YA author Patrick Ness. Fantasy violence is mostly large-scale destruction by a dragon burning people and buildings, and eating people and animals. There's no gore, but burning flesh and fat are mentioned. Real-world violence includes fights and some police brutality, with mention of broken bones, blood, and brief or vague descriptions of pain. A past attempted sexual assault is remembered. Weapons include guns, rifles, and blades as well as military guns and artillery. There are a few kisses and a same-sex relationship that mentions caressing below the waist and implied sex. Strong language isn't frequent but includes "f--ker," "s--tbag," "slut," and "fruit." A mixed-race main character and an important character who's parents are from Japan provide positive representations. Systemic and individual, personal racism are not a central theme, but examples show how both kinds are part of the characters' lives. The Cold War setting and the launching of a Russian spy satellite may inspire curiosity about the history of U.S.-Soviet relations and the early days of the space race.