The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 1: The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, Book 1 – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 1: The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, Book 1

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

book2025

89%

WISE Score

4.3

Amazon

Jane Austen's wit meets P.G. Wodehouse's absurdity in a Victorian journal that's actually funny.

The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 1: The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, Book 1

book

2025

89%

WISE Score

4.3

Amazon

Jane Austen's wit meets P.G. Wodehouse's absurdity in a Victorian journal that's actually funny.

4.3

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Screenwise Verdict

This is a gem. In a world of 'brain rot' content, Emma M. Lion is a breath of fresh air. It’s smart, it’s funny, and it doesn’t treat the reader like an idiot.

While it's marketed toward adults, it’s totally appropriate for middle schoolers and up who have the attention span for historical fiction. It’s the kind of series you can comfortably listen to on a road trip without worrying about a sudden sex scene or a string of F-bombs, but you also won't be bored to tears. It’s just good storytelling, period.

Age Fit

Perfect for precocious 12-year-olds who loved Anne of Green Gables but want something a bit more sarcastic, and equally great for adults who need a break from heavy thrillers.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

It's emotionally healthy and avoids the 'dark for the sake of being dark' trend. Emma models a resilient, witty outlook on a life that hasn't gone to plan, maintaining kindness toward her eccentric neighbors even when they're annoying.

Imaginative

The 'unselected' journal concept is a clever framing device. It builds a vivid, quirky version of Victorian London that feels lived-in and distinct rather than a cardboard cutout of the era.

Safe

Extremely safe. It's 'clean' fiction without being preachy. No gore, no explicit content, and no modern 'edginess' that would catch a parent off guard. It's the literary equivalent of a warm cup of tea.

Enriching

The vocabulary is top-tier, and the historical setting is well-researched. It offers great insight into Victorian social structures and the value of independence and character over status.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Emma is a fantastic protagonist—independent, clever, and prone to the kind of social disasters that make for great reading.
The writing style is sophisticated enough to challenge a teen's vocabulary without being a slog.
It’s a rare 'clean' book that doesn't feel like it's holding back or being childish; it's just genuinely charming.
The audiobook narration by Genevieve Gaunt is stellar, bringing the different voices of St. Crispian’s to life.

⚠

What to Watch For

The pacing is 'Victorian,' meaning it’s more about character and atmosphere than explosive plot twists.
If your kid only likes fast-paced action or modern slang, the 1883 setting might feel a bit slow at first.

Conversation Starters

"Why does Emma call these her 'unselected' journals? What do we usually hide from our public versions of ourselves?"
"How does Aunt Eugenia use social rules to control people, and how does Emma work around them?"
"If you had to live with an eccentric relative like Cousin Archibald, which of his quirks would drive you the most crazy?"

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