Map of Flames
by Lisa McMann
Read if you're interested in fantasy, adventure, or books for child.
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6.5
VerdictRead with discernment
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Book Summary
This is the first book in 'The Forgotten Five' series, a fantasy adventure for middle-grade readers. It follows a group of five supernaturally-gifted children who have been hidden away for thirteen years in a deserted town, only to be released into the world to fulfill a mysterious mission left by their missing parents.
ALIGNMYREAD RECOMMENDATION
“For Christian readers, particularly middle-grade children and their parents, this book can be read as a secular fantasy adventure. Parents should be aware of the prominent magical elements and the lack of a Christian worldview. It can be an opportunity to discuss the source of true power, purpose, and morality from a Biblical perspective, contrasting it with the story's narrative. Discernment is advised, and it may not be suitable for those who strictly avoid all supernatural fiction.”
Biblical alignment
- —Explores themes of family loyalty and the bond between adopted siblings.
- —Highlights cooperation and teamwork as the children rely on each other to navigate a new world.
- —Presents characters grappling with their unique identities and extraordinary abilities, which can metaphorically touch on discovering God-given gifts (though not explicitly Christian).
- —Focuses on a quest for truth and understanding about their past and purpose.
Areas of concern
- —The magical powers of the children (teleportation, invisibility, mind control, super strength, empathy) are central to the plot and may be a concern for some Christian parents regarding supernatural elements outside of a Biblical framework.
- —The story involves a mysterious, almost cult-like upbringing and a quest dictated by absent parents, which could be seen as promoting a 'destiny' without a divine creator.
- —While not excessively graphic, there is peril and conflict appropriate for the age group, but it can be intense.
- —The moral compass of some actions, while often justified within the narrative by the children's desperation or mission, might lack clear Biblical guidance for decision-making.
- —The overarching worldview is secular, with no explicit mention or exploration of faith, God, or spiritual principles.
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