Parents' Guide to

The Lie Tree

By Michael Berry, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Exciting, twisty mystery stars clever Victorian teen sleuth.

The Lie Tree Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

Community Reviews

age 12+

Based on 3 parent reviews

age 11+

Interesting, unique and different

This book was really interesting. It was much different, and lighter than I expected. I had expected tons of murder, suspense and peril but it was lighter. Still, expect a few shootings with minor injuries but no gore. The beginning might be a bit boring but once you get used to it, it’s an amazing read (even if the author doesn’t right with clear word choice). All in all, fine for 11 + but for kids who aren’t ready yet, should read it at around age 12+
age 14+

Slow

I think that the book is a VERY slow start and can be hard for some to understand, I also believe that it only gets exciting in the last 100 pages. I recommend to those who enjoy reading for a while before it starts to get interesting.

This title has:

Great role models
Too much violence

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (3 ):
Kids say (5 ):

A rich mix of Victorian mystery and timeless fantasy, this award-winning novel has plenty of plot twists and turns, as well as keen insight into the psychology of its cast of characters. In THE LIE TREE, Faith Sunderly demands justice for her murdered father, and author Frances Hardinge sets up a puzzling set of circumstances worthy of her sleuthing skills. The addition of a magical plant that feeds on lies and dispenses hidden truths adds a creepy tinge of the supernatural, not to mention a crucial serving of unpredictability. Each of the characters is seen in a different light by the end of the book.

Exciting, intense, and slyly funny, The Lie Tree will appeal to a wide and diverse audience of readers.

Book Details

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