Ratings

Content Ratings based on a 0-5 scale where
0 = no objectionable content and
5 = an excessive or disturbing level of content

Guide to Rating System

LANGUAGE

VIOLENCE

SEXUAL CONTENT

ADULT THEMES

Ratings Explanation

Language: There was one reference to Diety.

Violence: The story is based on a murder trial, and the trial deals with the strangulation of a woman. No real details are mentioned.

Adult Themes: April’s parents have been arrested on drug charges. Her home is dysfunctional, and her parents are divorcing. Custody issues plague April. A man is accused of murder and is on trial for the murder. A few of the characters smoke or drink alcohol. Theo’s uncle is a disbarred lawyer. Issues such as homelessness, illegal immigrants, helping the less fortunate, drug arrests and DUIs are discussed. Nothing is described graphically.

Synopsis

A murder has occurred in the small town where thirteen-year-old Theodore Boone lives. The man accused has now come to trial. Having lawyers as parents, Theo has learned a thing or two about the legal system. As the trial proceeds under Theo’s watchful eye, he begins to feel that something isn’t right. Is he guilty or not? Theo may have just come across something that will change to entire outcome of the trial, but is it too late to share what he knows?

I was looking for a book for my thirteen-year-old son to read when I came across a new series written by author John Grisham. I was one who enjoyed Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys mysteries when I was younger, and I was not disappointed in Theodore Boone. He’s a new crime fighter for the younger generation. His knowledge and skill in the legal world carries the reader through “Legal System 101”. In fact if I hadn’t already learned about the legal system as a juror, I would have felt I had come away with a greater education on trial by jury after having read this book. I love the way Theo’s busy family works in the community to help those who are less fortunate. He also uses his knowledge of the law to help others such as other students and even a few adults. Theo knows what he wants in life and works toward that goal. I like that! I would recommend this series for ages twelve and up. It would be a great way for young people to learn more about the legal system!