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Parents' Guide to

Shiva's Fire

By Whitney Stewart, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 13+

An introduction to India's complex social system.

Book Suzanne Fisher Staples Coming of Age 2000
Shiva's Fire Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

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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?

Our review:
Parents say Not yet rated
Kids say (1 ):

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.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • 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?

Book Details

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