Willodeen — 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
From #1 New York Times bestseller Katherine Applegate, a singular middle-grade novel about a girl who risks everything to help a handmade creature who comes to life.
The earth is old and we are not, and that is all you must remember ...
Eleven-year-old Willodeen adores creatures of all kinds, but her favorites are the most unlovable beasts in the land: strange beasts known as "screechers." The villagers of Perchance call them pests, even monsters, but Willodeen believes the animals serve a vital role in the complicated web of nature.
Lately, though, nature has seemed angry indeed. Perchance has been cursed with fires and mudslides, droughts and fevers, and even the annual migration of hummingbears, a source of local pride and income, has dwindled. For as long as anyone can remember, the tiny animals have overwintered in shimmering bubble nests perched atop blue willow trees, drawing tourists from far and wide. This year, however, not a single hummingbear has returned to Perchance, and no one knows why.
When a handmade birthday gift brings unexpected magic to Willodeen and her new friend, Connor, she's determined to speak up for the animals she loves, and perhaps even uncover the answer to the mystery of the missing hummingbears.
A timely and timeless tale about our fragile earth, and one girl's fierce determination to make a difference.
Frequently asked questions
Is Willodeen appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book contains scenes of violence where an old screecher is killed by hunters in front of Willodeen, and hunters are described as brandishing weapons and speaking harshly. Additionally, Willodeen's family perished in a fire, which adds to her trauma. While the book deals with themes of trauma and violence, it does not contain genuinely frightening content that would cause fear or nightmares for children. The focus is on Willodeen's emotional journey rather than horror.
Does Willodeen have violence?
The book contains scenes of violence where an old screecher is killed by hunters in front of Willodeen, and hunters are described as brandishing weapons and speaking harshly. Additionally, Willodeen's family perished in a fire, which adds to her trauma.
Does Willodeen have scary content?
While the book deals with themes of trauma and violence, it does not contain genuinely frightening content that would cause fear or nightmares for children. The focus is on Willodeen's emotional journey rather than horror.
Does Willodeen have religious themes?
No religious content is present in the book 'Willodeen'. The search results reference other works by the author and general discussions about religion, which are not relevant to the book's narrative.
Does Willodeen have racial/cultural content?
Race is not a central theme in 'Willodeen'. The characters are described in terms of their actions and relationships rather than their racial identities, and the narrative does not address racial issues directly.
Does Willodeen have profanity?
No profanity is present in 'Willodeen'. The search results do not indicate any use of inappropriate language within the book.
Does Willodeen have climate change?
'Willodeen' addresses environmental themes, including animal rights and the impact of human actions on nature. The book encourages young readers to engage in environmental activism and highlights the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
Does Willodeen have sexual identity?
There is no sexual content in 'Willodeen'. The book focuses on themes of animal rights and environmental activism without any mention of sexual themes or relationships.
Does Willodeen have gender roles?
The book features a young female protagonist, Willodeen, who is portrayed as a strong character advocating for animals. However, the narrative does not actively discuss or critique gender roles, making it more about her personal growth and environmental activism than gender dynamics.
Does Willodeen have lgbtq+ themes?
No LGBTQ+ themes or characters are mentioned in the book 'Willodeen' itself. The search results focus on general discussions about LGBTQ+ representation in media and do not provide specific content related to the book.
