Squirm (2018) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

Romance is virtually absent from this middle-grade adventure. There are brief mentions of Billy's father, Dennis, having a new family in Montana, but the dynamics are purely familial and focused on Billy's introduction to his stepsister Summer. Minor references to Billy's classmates and past crushes appear in the internal monologue, but there are no descriptions of physical intimacy or suggestive content. The book maintains a platonic focus on Billy's journey to find his father and his interest in wildlife. Even…

Moderate action violence includes a scene where a character is tracked by a drone, threats involving a grizzly bear, and a climactic confrontation involving a drone and a helicopter that results in minor injuries and property damage. Billy encounters dangerous wildlife, including snakes and a bear that wanders into their camp, creating moments of genuine suspense. There is also a scene involving a drone that is modified to disrupt an illegal hunt, which causes a character to lose control of their aircraft. While…

Language is very mild throughout the novel, adhering to standard middle-grade conventions. There are no profanities or vulgarities, only common insults like 'jerk,' 'idiot,' 'dork,' and 'weirdo' typically found in school settings or sibling squabbles. Billy and his sister Summer exchange sharp remarks, but they never escalate into adult language. The antagonists are portrayed as rude and arrogant, yet their dialogue remains clean. The author uses creative descriptions and sarcasm to convey frustration rather than…

Substance use is entirely absent from the story, which is consistent with the book's focus on youth adventure and environmentalism. The story focuses on outdoor exploration and environmental protection; no alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs are featured or mentioned by the main characters. Even the villains are not depicted using substances, keeping the conflict strictly focused on corporate greed and hunting. Billy and Summer are portrayed as health-conscious and focused on their mission in the wilderness. The…

Major themes include family abandonment, as Billy seeks out a father he barely knows, and the ethics of trophy hunting and land conservation. The protagonist shows significant independence and resourcefulness as he travels from Florida to Montana alone. The narrative explores the complex morality of how people choose to protect the environment, sometimes using unconventional methods. Billy deals with the realization that his father is a 'professional fugitive' involved in sabotaging illegal hunting operations…