Books will be given a general rating (see rating scale) in each of the following categories:
Disrespectful/Bad Attitude – This category includes instances of individuals being disrespectful towards others including peers, subordinates, and/or authority figures.
Frightening/Suspenseful – These types of scenes will most often appear in adventure, mystery, or fantasy genres. May include depictions of blood and gore.
Profanity – This category encompasses vulgar, crude, or blasphemous language. This will also include puerile language (i.e. "potty talk").
Sex – This category includes references to any kind of sexual behavior as well as related dialogue.
Substance Use – Any material that contains references to or explicit use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco (cigarettes, cigars, pipes) will be noted.
Mature Themes – Very often a book will contain subject matter that you may want to discuss with your children. Some examples may include death, divorce, racism, and complex philosophical or ethical issues.
Violence – This category includes any scenes of violence with or without the use of weapons.
