A brush with magic

William J. Brooke

Cover of A brush with magic

A brush with magic

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

Based on a Traditional Chinese Story

by William J. Brooke

Reading Level 4-5 Mild (Lvl 2) Ages 9-12 Balanced Read

The text is written at a 4th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.

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About This Book

Here’s a secret: Liang has a paintbrush that can bring anything he paints to life. He’s just stepped into the grand court of the Emperor of China, where magic and danger swirl around every corner—but that’s only the beginning.

Themes

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade novel follows Liang, an orphan boy who discovers a magical paintbrush that brings his creations to life. Set in historical China, the story blends fantasy and adventure as Liang seeks fortune and love at the Emperor’s court. Suitable for ages 9-12, the book contains mild peril and magical themes appropriate for middle-grade readers.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 2 — Mild
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

Light conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.

Content Flags

Mild Peril Fantasy Violence
Data confidence: standard

Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

2/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

2/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
4
Emotional Weight
4
Theme Richness
6
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

137 pages
ISBN
006022973X
Pages
137
Publisher
HarperCollins Publishers
Published
1993
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

ArtistsMagicChinaArt