Content levels
Trigger warnings
Positive tags
Protagonist archetypes
Synopsis
"The nationally best-selling author of House of Leaves and Only Revolutions has crafted a powerfully chilling novella--a ghost story for grownup readers. Late one evening at a party at an East Texas ranch house, five orphans gather to hear a story about a quest for a terrible weapon. Before them lies a long black box with five latches. As the owner of the box settles into a curious tale of revenge, the children grow more and more captivated, even as we grow more and more afraid that a new crime may await them all, especially as clocks in Upshur County approach midnight"--
Is The fifty year sword appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 16 and up.
A chilling literary ghost story featuring children in peril, with implied violence and psychological horror elements. The experimental narrative structure and adult themes of revenge make this best suited for mature teens and adults.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include child harm, violence, and revenge.
Who'll love this
Older teens who appreciate experimental storytelling and atmospheric horror will be drawn into this eerie tale-within-a-tale.