Content report card
Spinning parent’s guide: what’s inside
High confidence
Some
· 2/5
A car accident is referenced; bullying and an instance of sexual assault are part of the narrator's story but not depicted graphically.
Mild
· 1/5
Occasional mild profanity used naturally in dialogue.
Some
· 2/5
Some references to sexuality and intimacy as part of coming-of-age; no graphic depictions.
Intense
· 5/5
The entire memoir centers on the author's lesbian identity, her coming out process, and navigating relationships—central to the narrative and treated with nuance.
Moderate
· 3/5
Sexual assault, family trauma, bullying, and depression are significant themes; portrayed emotionally but not sensationalized.
What it offers
Exceptional
· 5/5
Courage in self-acceptance, honesty, resilience through hardship, the importance of finding community and support.
Exceptional
· 5/5
Tillie herself demonstrates vulnerability, reflection, and growth; mentors and friends provide crucial support and acceptance.
A note for parents
This acclaimed graphic memoir follows Tillie Walden's journey as a competitive figure skater coming to terms with her lesbian identity. The book thoughtfully explores serious topics including sexual assault, bullying, and family dysfunction, but treats them with emotional honesty rather than graphic depiction. It's a deeply reflective work that celebrates resilience and self-acceptance, making it most appropriate for mature teens who can engage with its complex themes.
Analyzed by AI · 1 month ago
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From the publisher
A powerful graphic memoir about coming-of-age, coming out, and competitive figure skating.
A powerful graphic memoir about coming-of-age, coming out, and competitive figure skating.
Shelved under
Comic books, strips
Childhood and youth
Coming out (Sexual orientation)
Figure skaters
Lesbian teenagers
Coming out (sexual identity)
Cartoonists
Women, united states, biography
Comics & graphic novels, nonfiction, biography & memoir
Skating
Lesbian figure skaters
Biography
ISBN 9781626727724 · First Second Books
For your family
Is “Spinning” appropriate for your kid?
Spinning age rating: ready from about age 13.
For younger readers
This graphic memoir explores the author's coming-of-age journey, including her experience with sexual assault, bullying, and family challenges—topics handled with emotional depth rather than graphic detail. The book centers on her lesbian identity and relationships, which are important to the story; reading together with a younger teen can help process these themes.
LGBTQ+ characters or themes are part of the story (5/5).
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