And Then There Were None
Caution. Age: 15+. A Catholic review of this book for parents.
Our review
Christie's best puzzle is also her darkest book. Every guest carries a death on his conscience, and guilt is treated as real, which is true as far as it goes. But nobody repents, nobody is forgiven, and all ten die. One hangs herself in despair, and the killer, a judge who enjoys killing, shoots himself. The book condemns him but offers no mercy and no hope.
For parents
Not a read-aloud. Independent reading from 15. Common Sense Media says 14 and Plugged In says adults. Expect ten deaths, two suicides, and racial and anti-Jewish remarks from the characters. Ask your teen why no one on the island confesses. Ask what separates justice from the judge's revenge (Romans 12:19, CCC 2262).