We Set the Dark on Fire — 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
"We Set the Dark on Fire burns bright. It will light the way for a new generation of rebels and lovers." --NPR
"Mejia pens a compelling, gripping story that mirrors real world issues of immigration and equality." --Buzzfeed
Five starred reviews!!
In this daring and romantic fantasy debut perfect for fans of The Handmaid's Tale and Latinx authors Zoraida Córdova and Anna-Marie McLemore, society wife-in-training Dani has a great awakening after being recruited by rebel spies and falling for her biggest rival.
At the Medio School for Girls, distinguished young women are trained for one of two roles in their polarized society. Depending on her specialization, a graduate will one day run a husband's household or raise his children. Both paths promise a life of comfort and luxury, far from the frequent political uprisings of the lower class.
Daniela Vargas is the school's top student, but her pedigree is a lie. She must keep the truth hidden or be sent back to the fringes of society.
And school couldn't prepare her for the difficult choices she must make after graduation, especially when she is asked to spy for a resistance group desperately fighting to bring equality to Medio.
Will Dani cling to the privilege her parents fought to win for her, or will she give up everything she's strived for in pursuit of a free Medio--and a chance at a forbidden love
Frequently asked questions
Is We Set the Dark on Fire appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The narrative includes scenes of protestor/police violence, with descriptions of explosions, gunshots, and a knife held to a character's throat that draws blood. Additionally, there are mentions of characters being in danger of drowning, being captured, or killed. The book is described as a dystopian fantasy but does not include elements that would be classified as scary in the context of children's literature.
Does We Set the Dark on Fire have violence?
The narrative includes scenes of protestor/police violence, with descriptions of explosions, gunshots, and a knife held to a character's throat that draws blood. Additionally, there are mentions of characters being in danger of drowning, being captured, or killed.
Does We Set the Dark on Fire have scary content?
The book is described as a dystopian fantasy but does not include elements that would be classified as scary in the context of children's literature.
Does We Set the Dark on Fire have religious themes?
No religious practices, beliefs, or ceremonies are mentioned in the book's narrative.
Does We Set the Dark on Fire have racial/cultural content?
The story features Latina protagonists and addresses themes of oppression and resistance against a corrupt government. It critiques classism and anti-immigration rhetoric, emphasizing the struggles of marginalized communities.
Does We Set the Dark on Fire have profanity?
No profanity is mentioned in the search results related to the book's content.
Does We Set the Dark on Fire have climate change?
No explicit themes related to climate activism, environmentalism, or denialism are present in the book's narrative.
Does We Set the Dark on Fire have sexual identity?
The book contains a same-sex romance that involves significant sexual tension and a few scenes of heavy kissing, described with emotional depth. There are also elements of 'sexual awakening' and mention of a predatory relationship dynamic.
Does We Set the Dark on Fire have gender roles?
The book explores gender roles within a society where women are expected to conform to subservient roles. It critiques these expectations through the experiences of its female characters, who navigate a polarized society.
Does We Set the Dark on Fire have lgbtq+ themes?
The book features a same-sex romance between two women, highlighting themes of queer identity and love. It is described as a 'groundbreaking love letter to queer girls and girls of color,' normalizing LGBTQ+ experiences within the narrative.
