Content levels
Trigger warnings
Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Themes
Synopsis
It Can't Happen Here is a semi-satirical American political novel published in 1935. It's Plot centers around newspaperman Doremus Jessup's struggle against the fascist regime of America' new president, Berzelius "Buzz" Windrip. Windripis elected on a platform promising to restore prosperity and $5,000 a year for all citizens. Once in office, however, he becomes a dictator, among other things, putting his enemies in concentration camps.
Is It Can't Happen Here appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 16 and up.
This political novel depicts the rise of American fascism with concentration camps, political persecution, and violence against dissidents. The themes are mature and disturbing, examining how democracy can fall to authoritarian rule.
What to know going in
This book has strong violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include torture, death, and fascism (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens interested in political dystopias and cautionary tales about authoritarianism will find this a chilling, thought-provoking read about resistance.