Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is Marie Lu doing what she does best—taking a real historical figure and breathing imaginative life into her story. Nannerl Mozart was a prodigy who composed and performed alongside her brother before being forced into obscurity by the constraints of her era. Lu gives her magic, agency, and a voice.

The Kingdom of Back blends history with fantasy in a way that feels fresh rather than gimmicky. The magical realm serves the emotional story rather than overwhelming it. It's a slower burn than Lu's dystopian Legend series, more atmospheric and introspective, but that's not a weakness—it's a different kind of strength.

For teens interested in music, history, feminism, or just beautifully written sibling dynamics, this is a gem. It's safe, substantive, and genuinely enriching without being homework. The 4.3 Amazon rating and strong reviews back up what the premise promises: a satisfying read that makes you think while keeping you engaged.

If your kid loved The Nightingale or Code Name Verity or other historical fiction with heart, this belongs on their list.

Age Fit

Best for ages 12-17, especially readers who love historical fiction, music, or sibling stories. The themes of gender inequality and artistic frustration resonate most with middle and high schoolers who can grasp the historical context and moral complexity.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

82

A deeply emotional story about sibling bonds, artistic ambition, and the frustration of systemic inequality. Nannerl's struggle with being denied her dreams due to gender is handled with nuance, and her relationship with Wolfgang is complex and loving despite the jealousy. The 'tyrannical father' element adds realistic family tension without being gratuitous. No inappropriate content—no sex, violence, or strong language per Common Sense Media.

Imaginative

88

Marie Lu weaves a magical realm (the Kingdom of Back) into the historical Mozart family story, creating a genre-blending fantasy that's both grounded and inventive. The mysterious stranger offering Faustian bargains, the interplay of music and magic, and the reimagining of real history through a fantastical lens all demonstrate strong creative vision. It invites readers to think about art, ambition, and what we'd sacrifice for our dreams.

Safe

95

Exceptionally safe for a YA novel. Common Sense Media confirms no sex, violence, or strong language. The 'dangerous lengths' mentioned in the synopsis refers to moral/ethical choices rather than physical danger. The Faustian bargain theme involves tension and difficult decisions but nothing graphic or traumatic. Age-appropriate for middle grade and up.

Enriching

86

Rich historical context about the Mozart family and 18th-century Europe, with meaningful exploration of gender inequality, artistic ambition, and the erasure of women from history. Readers learn about Nannerl Mozart, a real person whose talents were overshadowed. The moral complexity of the magical bargain prompts reflection on what we're willing to sacrifice for recognition. Music as a central theme adds cultural literacy. Engaging enough to hold teen interest while delivering substance.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Shines a light on Nannerl Mozart, a real musical prodigy erased from history because she was a woman—giving voice to a forgotten talent
Genre-blending done right: historical fiction meets fantasy bargains and magical realms, all woven through with music and sibling dynamics
Explores the painful reality of gender inequality in the 1700s without being preachy—just shows how crushing it was to have talent but no path forward
Marie Lu (Legend series) brings her lyrical writing to historical fiction, creating atmosphere and emotional depth that resonates
Safe and substantive: no content warnings, but plenty of moral complexity about what you'd sacrifice for your dreams

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What to Watch For

The 'tyrannical father' Leopold Mozart is historically accurate but may be hard for kids with controlling parents—he's not abusive but definitely oppressive
The magical bargain involves moral gray areas and potential consequences, which could prompt questions about deals with the devil-type scenarios
Themes of jealousy between siblings are realistic and might hit home if you have kids with competitive dynamics
It's a slower, more literary read than Lu's Legend series—not action-packed, more introspective and atmospheric

Conversation Starters

"Did you know Mozart had a super talented sister? Why do you think history forgot about her?"
"If someone offered you a magical deal to make your biggest dream come true, but there might be a catch—would you take it?"
"How do you think Nannerl felt watching her little brother get all the attention when she was just as good?"
"What would you do if you were told you couldn't pursue something you loved just because of who you are?"

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The Kingdom of Back Marie Lu