As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Safe for the age band
Age-appropriate with no significant concerns.
Sign in to save your wishlist and reading history across devices.
- Ages
- 13–18
AI summary
Fifteen-year-old Esther is struggling with her parents' constant arguing and her brother's absence. She finds a distraction when she discovers hidden letters in the walls of her home written by a soldier to his love, leading her on a journey to uncover the past.
Parent notes
The book appears to be a standard Young Adult historical/contemporary blend focusing on family issues and a historical mystery, with no immediate red flags for conservative parents. Parent concerns: Domestic instability (parental fighting); Family secrets; Themes of wartime loss Romance/sexual content: The story involves a 15-year-old protagonist discovering letters sent by a soldier to his sweetheart, implying a historical heterosexual romance, likely innocent in nature. Language: The provided text does not indicate use of profanity, though young adult fiction often contains mild language. Violence: The book is categorized as military historical fiction, which may involve mentions of wartime deaths or injuries in the letters, but graphic content is not indicated. Substances: No substance use mentioned in the description. Worldview themes: Family conflict, Historical discovery
Why parents choose this book
What makes Everything Is Fine (And Other Lies I Tell Myself) worth choosing
An honest, parent-first look at who this book suits, what it offers, and what to know before you buy.
Best for
- Age range: 13–18 (fits siblings across a range).
- Reading maturity: Young adult — teen protagonists and more nuanced themes.
- Kids who tend to love it: readers ages 13–18 looking for a solid story.
- Personality fit: kids ages 13–18 who enjoy a good story.
Parents love this book because
- Age-appropriate content for the 13–18 band with no significant flags.
- Written by Cathy Brett, whose books parents return to for consistently thoughtful storytelling.
Your child will probably enjoy Everything Is Fine (And Other Lies I Tell Myself) if they…
- Enjoy stories written for kids around ages 13–18
This book helps develop
Vocabulary, sustained attention, and reading confidence for the 13–18 age band.
Things parents should know
No significant content concerns for this age band. Preview with your reader if you want to discuss any specific themes.
Reading commitment
Why we recommend it
We think Everything Is Fine (And Other Lies I Tell Myself) is a confident pick for the 13–18 age band. Cathy Brett's voice is what makes it stick: readable, respectful of kids, and easy to hand to the next child in the family.
Content ratings
Ready to add it to the shelf?
Get Everything Is Fine (And Other Lies I Tell Myself) on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more