Matilda Bone — 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
Filled with the witty dialogue and richly authentic detail that Karen Cushman's work is known for, Matilda Bone is a compelling comic novel about a girl who learns to see herself and others clearly, to laugh, and to live contentedly in this world. Author's note.
Frequently asked questions
Is Matilda Bone appropriate for a 7-year-old?
There is no explicit violence depicted in 'Matilda Bone'. The narrative focuses on Matilda's experiences as an apprentice bonesetter in a medieval setting, which may involve themes of illness but does not include physical violence between characters. The book does not contain genuinely frightening content. It is a historical novel that focuses on Matilda's journey and challenges rather than horror or suspenseful elements.
Does Matilda Bone have violence?
There is no explicit violence depicted in 'Matilda Bone'. The narrative focuses on Matilda's experiences as an apprentice bonesetter in a medieval setting, which may involve themes of illness but does not include physical violence between characters.
Does Matilda Bone have scary content?
The book does not contain genuinely frightening content. It is a historical novel that focuses on Matilda's journey and challenges rather than horror or suspenseful elements.
Does Matilda Bone have religious themes?
The book features a protagonist, Matilda, who is raised in a religious environment and grapples with her faith throughout the story. It explores themes of faith in action versus mere belief, particularly in the context of her apprenticeship with a bonesetter who uses practical medicine instead of solely relying on prayer.
Does Matilda Bone have racial/cultural content?
There are no explicit themes of race or racism in 'Matilda Bone'. The story is set in a medieval English village and does not address modern racial issues or dynamics.
Does Matilda Bone have profanity?
There is no profanity in 'Matilda Bone'. The language used in the book is appropriate for its target audience and does not include any strong or inappropriate language.
Does Matilda Bone have climate change?
There are no climate themes present in 'Matilda Bone'. The narrative does not address environmental issues or activism related to climate change.
Does Matilda Bone have sexual identity?
No sexual content is present in 'Matilda Bone'. The book is centered around Matilda's growth and experiences in a medieval context, without any romantic or sexual themes.
Does Matilda Bone have gender roles?
The book presents feminist themes, showcasing how lower-class women in medieval society have more influence and power than higher-class women. It critiques traditional gender roles by highlighting the strength and agency of women like Red Peg, the bonesetter.
Does Matilda Bone have lgbtq+ themes?
No LGBTQ+ themes are present in the book 'Matilda Bone' by Karen Cushman. The search results reference discussions about queer undertones in the film adaptation of 'Matilda', which is not relevant to the book's content.



