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Parents' Guide to

Seraphina

By Michael Berry, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Richly conceived dragon fantasy with stellar young heroine.

Book Rachel Hartman Fantasy 2012
Seraphina Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Community Reviews

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age 15+

Based on 2 parent reviews

bjernd
bjernd Adult
September 15, 2019
age 12+

Think outside the checkboxes: self-harm...

One thing the CSM reviewer missed: there’s one pretty graphic self-harm scene. Doesn’t fit any of the checkboxes, but it’s much more disturbing than any of the dragon fights or whatever.  (I think it's fine for kids 12 and up. But if you want to know what's in there...)
aidanm1
aidanm1 Adult
December 3, 2016
age 17+

Must Read

Seraphina, by Rachel Hartman, really brings out the art in writing. Each word in this brilliantly plotted fantasy seems to be well thought out. Personally, this book has some of the best character development I’ve read in a while. However, I feel the plot lacks some surprise. There were times when I was waiting for a plot twist and it just never came. Furthermore, I also feel that this book hits a strange audience. It contains the fiction that children would enjoy, but the themes that only adults would understand. Overall, this book is a definite must read, despite its tiny quirks.
See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

In the kingdom of Goredd, humans and shape-shifting dragons have endured an uneasy truce for four decades. But as the citizens prepare for the arrival of the leader of the dragon world, musician Seraphina Dombergh finds herself in a dangerous position. A member of the Goredd royal family has been murdered, and Seraphina finds herself drawn into the investigation, along with Prince Lucian Kiggs. As they search for answers that might prevent a civil war, Seraphina struggles with a potentially deadly secret -- that she herself is the product of an illegal marriage between her human father and her deceased dragon mother.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (2 ):
Kids say (2 ):

SERAPHINA is a cleverly conceived and well-executed coming-of-age fantasy novel, rich in detail yet not overwhelming in its dragon lore. Author Rachel Hartman has created a singularly resourceful and empathetic heroine in young music teacher Seraphina Dombegh. The action scenes are well choreographed, but much of the plot's power comes from the emotional interplay between the novel's unusual and well-realized characters. Clearly only the first installment of a new series, Seraphina ends on a high note, with promise of more captivating adventures to come.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about why strong female characters like Seraphina often appear in fantasy books. How do you think she compares with other fantasy heroines?

  • Why are dragons so popular in literature, from traditional fairy tales to contemporary fantasy novels?

  • Why is intermarriage between people of different races, religions, or societies controversial?

Book Details

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