Common Sense Media Review
By Julie A. Carlson
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Magical fantasy blends science, magic, and Shakespeare.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
In THE IRON KING, first in a seven-book series that also spawned spin-off tales, the fey kidnap Meghan Chase's younger brother, Ethan. Meghan, who's always felt out of place in the human world, takes the plunge into the Nevernever to rescue her brother. There she meets friends and enemies, including a dangerous, sexy prince. Once she realizes why Ethan's been abducted and what it has to do with her, Meghan's life turns upside down, and she has more choices to make.
Is It Any Good?
Magical and heartfelt, The Iron King is a thrilling tale told in gorgeous language. Once Meghan steps into the world of the Nevernever, readers won't want to leave. Fans of Harry Potter and other exciting fantasy stories will thoroughly enjoy this book, in which characters are well developed, with their own unique personalties. Meghan's a terrific protagonist readers will root for till the cliffhanging end. They'll also enjoy Puck's humor and tricks, Prince Ash's grace and romantic charm, and Meghan's dealings with fantastic adversaries.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the idea that "you always have a choice." Do you agree or disagree? What do you think of Meghan's choices?
Have you read A Midsummer Night's Dream? Do you prefer the characters as they appear in Shakespeare, or in The Iron King? How are they different, or the same?
What do you think about humans being so reliant on technology? What about global warming and climate change?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic , Fairy Tales ) , Adventures , Book Characters , Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship , School ( High School ) , Animals , STEM
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Harlequin Teen
- Publication date : February 1, 2010
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 13 - 18
- Number of pages : 368
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate