The Black Witch — Content Guide for Parents
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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
"Maximum suspense, unusual magic--a whole new, thrilling approach to fantasy!"
--Tamora Pierce, #1 New York Times bestselling author
Powerful magic. A deadly legacy. A world at the edge of war. Prepare to be spellbound by fantasy series, The Black Witch Chronicles.
Elloren Gardner is the spitting image of her grandmother, who drove back the enemy forces in the last Realm War. But while her people believe she will follow in her grandmother's footsteps and become the next Black Witch of prophecy, Elloren is devoid of power in a society that prizes magical ability above all else.
When she is granted the opportunity to pursue her dream of becoming an apothecary, Elloren joins her brothers at Verpax University. But she soon realizes that the university may be the most treacherous place of all for the granddaughter of the Black Witch.
As evil looms and the pressure to live up to her heritage builds, Elloren's best hope of survival may be among a secret band of rebels...if only she can find the courage to trust those she's been taught to fear.
Critics are raving about Laurie Forest's incredible debut, The Black Witch:
"Forest uses a richly imagined magical world to offer an uncompromising condemnation of prejudice and injustice."
--Booklist, starred review
"A noteworthy debut."
--Publishers Weekly, starred review
"Briskly paced, tightly plotted."
--Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Books in The Black Witch Chronicles:
- The Black Witch
- The Iron Flower
- The Shadow Wand
- The Demon Tide
- The Dryad Storm
- Wandfasted (ebook novella)*
- Light Mage (ebook novella)*
* Also available in print in The Rebel Mages anthology
Frequently asked questions
Is The Black Witch appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The narrative includes depictions of violence such as characters being stabbed, burned, and involved in skirmishes with magical weapons. The series addresses themes of oppression and conflict, which involve violent actions. No explicit scary content is mentioned in the search results, and the themes discussed do not indicate age-inappropriate fear elements.
Does The Black Witch have violence?
The narrative includes depictions of violence such as characters being stabbed, burned, and involved in skirmishes with magical weapons. The series addresses themes of oppression and conflict, which involve violent actions.
Does The Black Witch have scary content?
No explicit scary content is mentioned in the search results, and the themes discussed do not indicate age-inappropriate fear elements.
Does The Black Witch have religious themes?
No religious practices, beliefs, or ceremonies are explicitly mentioned in the narrative. The content does not promote or critique any specific religion.
Does The Black Witch have racial/cultural content?
The story examines themes of prejudice and privilege, particularly through the lens of different races and cultures within the magical world. It critiques racism and promotes understanding among diverse groups.
Does The Black Witch have profanity?
The narrative includes mild swearing, with instances of words like 'bitch' noted. The context suggests that profanity is present but not pervasive.
Does The Black Witch have climate change?
The series incorporates themes of environmental activism, particularly in later books, where the narrative discusses the impact of prejudice on the natural world and emphasizes the importance of unity in addressing climate issues.
Does The Black Witch have sexual identity?
The series contains sexual content, including kissing and groping, with some encounters described in detail. The later books are noted for having more sexual content than earlier ones.
Does The Black Witch have gender roles?
The narrative includes themes of gender dynamics, with critiques of traditional roles and expectations. However, it has been noted that some elements may not fully support modern feminist ideals.
Does The Black Witch have lgbtq+ themes?
The series includes diverse characters, and the later books feature themes of love that encompass various sexual orientations. The narrative explores LGBTQ+ experiences, particularly in the context of acceptance and identity.
