A Handshake From Heaven
Carol Sbordon Bannon
A Handshake From Heaven
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Carol Sbordon Bannon
Illustrated by Michaelin Otis
The text is written at a 2nd grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for teens (ages 13+), and the content is gentle with no concerning themes.
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About This Book
Have you ever wondered what happens when you receive a special handshake from heaven? Imagine a moment where a simple gesture brings you closer to someone who loves you forever. What secret power does this handshake hold?
Themes
Quick Assessment
This gently written book explores the significance of receiving Communion in the Christian faith, emphasizing how it strengthens a child's relationship with God. Suitable for early readers around grades 1-2, it provides a simple, clear explanation appropriate for young children beginning to learn about religious practices. The content is peaceful and supportive, making it a good introduction to faith concepts without complex theological detail.
Why we rated A Handshake From Heaven 7C
A Handshake From Heaven is written at a Level 2 reading level across 32 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 3.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, A Handshake From Heaven works for readers up to grade 4.0.
We rate A Handshake From Heaven as 7C ("Clear") because the content sits in the "Gentle" range — no conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly gentle; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the gentle intensity score.
Thematically, A Handshake From Heaven explores religion - christianity, faith, spirituality, and children's nonfiction — these threads give the book room to mean different things to different readers.
Good fit for
- ✓ Children in the Ages 13+ range — the maturity and attention span match the story's pacing.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about religion - christianity, faith, spirituality.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
7C — ClearNo conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.
Was our "Gentle" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
1/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
1/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9781592981533
- Pages
- 32
- Publisher
- Bookhouse Fulfillment
- Published
- August 15, 2006
- Type
- Fiction