These Witches Don't Burn — Content Guide for Parents
Themes present
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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
Hannah's a witch, but not the kind you're thinking of. She's the real deal, an Elemental with the power to control fire, earth, water, and air. But even though she lives in Salem, Massachusetts, her magic is a secret she has to keep to herself. If she's ever caught using it in front of a Reg (non-witch), she could lose it. For good. So, Hannah spends most of her time avoiding her ex-girlfriend (and fellow Elemental Witch) Veronica, hanging out with her best friend, and working at the Fly by Night Cauldron selling candles and crystals to tourists, goths, and local Wiccans.
But when a terrifying blood ritual interrupts the end-of-school-year bonfire and evidence of dark magic begins to appear all over Salem, Hannah's sure it's the work of a deadly Blood Witch. However her coven seems less than convinced, forcing Hannah to team up with the last person she wants to see: Veronica. With everything she loves on the line, Hannah will have to test the limits of her power if she's going to save her coven.
"Infused with page-turning suspense, bittersweet romance, shocking twists, and tragic turns, Sterling has written a standout debut." —Dana Mele, author of People Like Us
Frequently asked questions
Is These Witches Don't Burn appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book includes themes of violence, including references to a car crash, a house burning down, and mentions of witch hunters who pose a threat to witches. It also discusses the historical context of witch trials, which involved violence against women accused of witchcraft. The story includes elements that may be considered scary, such as the presence of Blood Witches and the fear associated with them. The narrative builds suspense around threats to witches, which could be unsettling for some readers.
Does These Witches Don't Burn have violence?
The book includes themes of violence, including references to a car crash, a house burning down, and mentions of witch hunters who pose a threat to witches. It also discusses the historical context of witch trials, which involved violence against women accused of witchcraft.
Does These Witches Don't Burn have scary content?
The story includes elements that may be considered scary, such as the presence of Blood Witches and the fear associated with them. The narrative builds suspense around threats to witches, which could be unsettling for some readers.
Does These Witches Don't Burn have religious themes?
No religious practices, beliefs, or ceremonies are mentioned in the narrative of the book. The content focuses on witchcraft rather than any specific religion.
Does These Witches Don't Burn have racial/cultural content?
While there are mentions of characters of color in the supporting cast, race is not a central theme or plot element in the book. The focus remains on the experiences of the main characters, who are predominantly white.
Does These Witches Don't Burn have profanity?
The book includes instances of profanity as part of its authentic portrayal of teenage life. Specific examples of language are not detailed in the search results, but it is noted that the author does not avoid such expressions.
Does These Witches Don't Burn have climate change?
There are no explicit themes related to climate activism or environmentalism in the narrative. The story centers around witchcraft and personal relationships rather than ecological issues.
Does These Witches Don't Burn have sexual identity?
The narrative includes elements of sapphic romance, with Hannah experiencing a significant romantic relationship with Veronica, described as life-changing. The book does not shy away from discussing physical relationships and includes details that reflect adolescent experiences.
Does These Witches Don't Burn have gender roles?
The book does not explicitly promote traditional gender roles or modern feminist themes. It focuses on the characters' identities and experiences as witches rather than on gender expectations.
Does These Witches Don't Burn have lgbtq+ themes?
The book features a main character, Hannah, who identifies as a lesbian, and includes other queer characters such as Morgan, who is bisexual, and Cal, a gay trans man. The narrative presents these identities in a realistic manner, normalizing LGBTQ+ experiences within the story.
