Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that some kids may be bored by parts of this literature-centric live-action series. Some scenes include mild violence -- punching, swordfights, etc. -- but there's never any bloodshed. Each episode teaches a key life lesson, and the human characters are good role models. The fantasy sequences are engaging, but the simple script makes some of the non-fantasy scenes seem fake. (All the easier for younger kids to follow, but not exactly cutting edge.) That said, this award-winning PBS series encourages kids to read and introduces them to classic books (most of which are more sophisticated fare than what you might find on Reading Rainbow).

Sexual Content

Not applicable.

Violence

Some fighting as depicted in literary classics (swords, arrows, and other weaponry, but no gore).

Language

Not applicable

Social Behavior

Encourages kids to read; promotes all kinds of literature, from African multicultural folktales to works by Faust, Jane Austen, Mark Twain, and others. The kids are well-behaved but not afraid to break the rules if it's for a good cause. Everyone learns an important life lesson at the end of each episode.

Consumerism

The show's success led to a book series.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Not applicable