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Cover of 47

47

Walter Mosley (2005)

SubgenreEpic Fantasy
Age groupYA 12-17
Content ratingPG-13
Pages (Standard (250-400))
Setting
CSM age13
Goodreads3.75

Content levels

ViolenceModerate
Sexual contentNone
LanguageMild

Hero archetypes

Mentor

Synopsis

Number 47, a fourteen-year-old slave boy growing up under the watchful eye of a brutal master in 1832, meets the mysterious Tall John, who introduces him to a magical science and also teaches him the meaning of freedom.

Is 47 appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 13 and up.

This historical fantasy set in slavery era America contains depictions of the brutality of slavery and themes of oppression, but focuses on empowerment through magical knowledge and the journey toward freedom. Appropriate for mature middle schoolers and teens ready for difficult historical content.

What to know going in

This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include child abuse, slavery, and violence (see the full list above).

Who'll love this

Teens will be drawn to a young hero discovering magical powers and learning to fight for freedom against impossible odds.

Tags

Historical FantasyMagical RealismAfrican American FantasyAfrofuturism