Side Effects May Vary
by Julie Murphy
Age rating: Ages 14–16 · Teens
Age rating and Christian content guidance for parents.
First published 2014
A teenage girl with cancer uses a risky experimental treatment that has unexpected and life-altering side effects.
Concern Level
Mild
Virtue Level
Present
Concern Level
Mild
Virtue Level
Present
What is Dokilit?
Dokilit is an AI-powered content guide for Christian parents. We analyse books through the lens of faith and family, then show you the concerns, the virtues, and the conversation points that matter for your home.
Things to consider
Higher = more presentThere are some romantic elements and kissing.
The story deals with the physical and emotional toll of illness.
Mild profanity is used by some characters.
No blasphemy is present in the book.
Substance use is not a theme in this story.
The protagonist faces a life-threatening illness.
The story is not scary or horror-themed.
Occult or witchcraft elements are absent.
No LGBTQ+ themes or characters are present.
The focus is on personal resilience and navigating difficult choices.
Christians are not portrayed negatively in this book.
Virtues to celebrate
Higher = stronger presenceThe protagonist shows immense courage in facing her illness.
True Christian faith is absent from the narrative.
The story explores themes of friendship and romantic connection.
The protagonist seeks healing and learns to live fully.
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