Parents' Guide to

Shadow Realm

By Robert Yaniz Jr., Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Teen fantasy pod tackles prejudice & cultural significance.

Podcast Storytelling SpokenLayer Average run time: 12 minutes
Shadow Realm podcast art: a teen boy stands in the center behind the show title surrounded by other characters, including a man with a long white beard, a dog with red eyes, a young woman with wings, and another woman with dark hair.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this podcast.

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What’s It About?

SHADOW REALM follows 15-year-old Arya, who's consistently bullied and terrorized at school for being the only person of South Asian descent in his class. But his personal demons become more literal threats as he's soon swept up into a fantasy adventure steeped in Indian mythology. With his family and future hanging in the balance, Arya must reconnect with his culture and battle his way through countless dark forces to win the day.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say Not yet rated
Kids say (1 ):

A strong fantasy adventure, Shadow Realm uses supernatural elements to build on its main character's coming-of-age story in service of an emotionally satisfying journey. The show aims for a teen audience and holds nothing back with its bold approach to just how cruel adolescence can be. Ultimately, this podcast grounds the story, putting very real social issues in the spotlight. Shadow Realm is a testament to connecting with culture and embracing our own unique identity and heritage. It offers a story of empowerment, sure to touch teen listeners and their parents, as well.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Arya treats his parents and falls prey to peer pressure. What value does Shadow Realm gain by letting listeners hear how his negative behavior and poor choices play out? Have you experienced peer pressure? What are some ways you navigate peer pressure?

  • Much of Shadow Realm hinges on the struggle to keep one's culture alive in another country. Why might Arya's parents see the significance in staying true to his family's culture when he cannot? What are ways your family celebrates or passes on traditions and honors your culture?

  • Shadow Realm uses fantastical and supernatural elements as an extension of its themes. Does this approach enrich the coming-of-age story at the heart of the podcast or distract from it? Why?

  • This podcast has strong themes of compassion, humility and perseverance. Why are these important character strengths to develop and how can they help when navigating adolescence?

Podcast Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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