A Song Below Water A Novel — Content Guide for Parents
Themes present
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Content themes
Factual summary of themes present in this book. No opinion — just the facts.
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Religious themes
PRESENTContains references to prayer and church attendance. A minister character plays a supporting role in two chapters.
About this book
Bethany C. Morrow's A Song Below Water is the story for today’s readers — a captivating modern fantasy about Black sirens, friendship, and self-discovery set against the challenges of today's racism and sexism.
In a society determined to keep her under lock and key, Tavia must hide her siren powers.
Meanwhile, Effie is fighting her own family struggles, pitted against literal demons from her past. Together, these best friends must navigate through the perils of high school’s junior year.
But everything changes in the aftermath of a siren murder trial that rocks the nation, and Tavia accidentally lets out her magical voice at the worst possible moment.
Soon, nothing in Portland, Oregon, seems safe. To save themselves from drowning, it’s only Tavia and Effie’s unbreakable sisterhood that proves to be the strongest magic of all.
"It's beautiful and it's brilliant.”--Jason Reynolds, #1 New York Times bestselling author and National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature
“An enthralling tale of Black girl magic and searing social commentary ready to rattle the bones.” — Dhonielle Clayton, New York Times bestselling author of The Belles
Frequently asked questions
Is A Song Below Water A Novel appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The story includes a murder where the perpetrator claims self-defense based on the victim being a siren. It also addresses themes of physical and emotional violence, particularly in the context of social justice. No scary content detected in the book's narrative.
Does A Song Below Water A Novel have violence?
The story includes a murder where the perpetrator claims self-defense based on the victim being a siren. It also addresses themes of physical and emotional violence, particularly in the context of social justice.
Does A Song Below Water A Novel have scary content?
No scary content detected in the book's narrative.
Does A Song Below Water A Novel have religious themes?
No religious content or themes detected in the book's narrative.
Does A Song Below Water A Novel have racial/cultural content?
The book centers on the experiences of two African American teen girls and addresses themes of racism and social justice, particularly in relation to the Black Lives Matter movement.
Does A Song Below Water A Novel have profanity?
No profanity detected in the book's narrative.
Does A Song Below Water A Novel have climate change?
No climate themes detected in the book's narrative.
Does A Song Below Water A Novel have sexual identity?
No sexual content detected in the book's narrative.
Does A Song Below Water A Novel have gender roles?
The narrative highlights the empowerment of Black women and critiques societal perceptions of them, particularly in relation to misogynoir and the responsibilities that come with influence.
Does A Song Below Water A Novel have lgbtq+ themes?
The book features two African American teen girls, Tavia and Effie, with Tavia being a siren, which serves as a metaphor for misogynoir. The narrative explores themes related to identity and empowerment, aligning with LGBTQ+ experiences.
