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Cover of The Wall We Keep

The Wall We Keep

Richard C. Stierheim ()

Subgenre
Age groupMiddle Grade 8-12
Content ratingPG
Pages (Quick Read (<250))
Setting
CSM age10

Content levels

ViolenceMild
Sexual contentNone
LanguageNone

Trigger warnings

AmnesiaIsolation

Synopsis

A small creature awakens alone in a mysterious forest with no memory of who he is or where he came from. Drawn toward a distant mountain by a force he cannot explain, he journeys through a world of strange beauty, dangerous obstacles, and quiet wonder. But at the summit waits a shimmering barrier—and each time he reaches it, he is cast back down to begin again. The Wall We Keep is an emotional speculative fantasy short story about curiosity, perseverance, and the cost of unquestioned fear.

Is The Wall We Keep appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 10 and up.

A reflective, melancholic fantasy short story featuring a small creature's repeated attempts to reach a mysterious barrier, exploring themes of identity, fear, and perseverance. Emotionally resonant but no graphic content.

What to know going in

This book has mild violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include amnesia and isolation.

Who'll love this

Readers who enjoy mysterious, thoughtful stories with a puzzle-like quality will be drawn to this creature's journey and wonder what the barrier means.

Tags

Philosophical FantasyAllegoricalShort StoryExperimental