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Content snapshot
Flag an inaccuracy →What's in this book, at a glance — five things readers want to know before they start.
Violence
Barely any
Minimal violence; the supernatural events affecting other characters are summarized, not depicted
Language
Some
Some strong language appropriate for the contemporary YA register
Sexual Content
Barely any
Mild romantic content
Substance Use
None
No substance use
Emotional Intensity
Some
OCD and family dysfunction are handled with Ness's characteristic honesty and care
What this book is about
Patrick Ness's YA novel follows Mikey and his friends, ordinary teenagers in a town where supernatural events — referenced only in brief chapter summaries — are happening to other, more special kids. Mikey's story is about OCD, family dysfunction, and growing up, without the apocalyptic stakes. The novel is a clever, warm subversion of YA fantasy conventions and works as a sincere coming-of-age story in its own right.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
OCD and mental health depicted
Family dysfunction themes
Reader Verification
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