Barda — 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
Darkseid is...and life on Apokolips is tough-but then, it is hell after all. And no one knows this better than Barda, Granny Goodness's right hand warrior.
But Barda has a secret...she is in love. Or she is drawn to the idea of it anyway, whether it be the beauty of a flower, her affection for her closest friend, Aurelie, or the mysterious and fierce enemy warrior, Orion, who is the only match for Barda's strength.
But when Granny decides Barda is becoming too soft, she assigns Barda a task that might be more than she can handle-to break the seemingly unbreakable Scott Free. And as Barda questions why Scott has such hope and what he might have done to promote such hatred from Granny, she finds herself drawn to him in a way she never expected.
The only thing is, we do not speak of love on Apokolips...
Join New York Times bestselling author-illustrator NGOZI UKAZU (Check, Please) as she takes readers on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery, deep friendships, and first loves!
Frequently asked questions
Is Barda appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book depicts elements of violence and abuse, particularly in the context of Barda's background on Apokolips, which is described as a harsh environment. There are references to torture and abusive relationships, but the content is framed in a way that is not overly graphic. While the book contains elements of violence and abuse, it does not include genuinely frightening content that would cause fear or distress. The themes are serious but presented in a way suitable for its intended audience.
Does Barda have violence?
The book depicts elements of violence and abuse, particularly in the context of Barda's background on Apokolips, which is described as a harsh environment. There are references to torture and abusive relationships, but the content is framed in a way that is not overly graphic.
Does Barda have scary content?
While the book contains elements of violence and abuse, it does not include genuinely frightening content that would cause fear or distress. The themes are serious but presented in a way suitable for its intended audience.
Does Barda have religious themes?
No religious content in the book itself. The narrative does not include any religious practices, beliefs, or ceremonies.
Does Barda have racial/cultural content?
No explicit racial themes in the book narrative. The story does not focus on race as a central theme or plot point.
Does Barda have profanity?
No profanity detected in the book. The narrative focuses on themes of love and self-discovery without the inclusion of strong language.
Does Barda have climate change?
No climate themes detected in the book. The narrative does not address environmental issues or activism.
Does Barda have sexual identity?
The story includes themes of love and attraction, particularly as Barda navigates her feelings for Scott. The phrase 'we do not speak of love on Apokolips' suggests a significant exploration of romantic themes within the narrative.
Does Barda have gender roles?
The narrative presents a feminist perspective, particularly through Barda's character development and her struggle against an oppressive figure (Granny Goodness) who manipulates and demeans her. This suggests a critique of traditional gender roles.
Does Barda have lgbtq+ themes?
The book 'Barda' by Ngozi Ukazu is part of a broader landscape of LGBTQIA stories, featuring themes of love and self-discovery. The narrative includes queer characters and explores their relationships, suggesting a positive representation of LGBTQ+ themes.



