A Name is a Label
Irene Karasick McMurrich
A Name is a Label
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Irene Karasick McMurrich
The text is written at a 2nd grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for younger children (ages 5–8), and the content is gentle with no concerning themes.
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About This Book
The classroom buzzes with whispers as a new student walks in, and suddenly, names start to feel different—like secret codes with hidden meanings. What happens when a name isn’t just a name anymore? The answer might change everything you thought you knew about labels.
Quick Assessment
This engaging free verse book explores the power of names and the meanings behind words, encouraging young readers to think critically about labels and identity. Illustrated with unique, playful artwork, it is suitable for early readers aged 5-8 and gently prompts discussions about individuality and perception.
Why we rated A Name is a Label 7C
A Name is a Label is written at a Level 2 reading level across 36 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 3.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, A Name is a Label works for readers up to grade 4.0.
We rate A Name is a Label 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 Name is a Label explores identity & self-discovery, friendship, family, and humor — these threads give the book room to mean different things to different readers.
Good fit for
- ✓ Children in the Ages 5-8 range — the maturity and attention span match the story's pacing.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about identity & self-discovery, friendship, family.
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
2/10A 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
- 9781894800143
- Pages
- 36
- Publisher
- Ekstasis Editions
- Published
- February 15, 2006
- Type
- Fiction