Alan Shepard
Tamra Orr
Alan Shepard
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
The First American in Space
by Tamra Orr
Library of Astronaut Biographies
The text is written at a 8th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content is gentle with no concerning themes.
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About This Book
Explore the inspiring journey of Alan Shepard, the first American to travel into space. Discover how his skills as a test pilot and his determination helped him overcome challenges and make history as a Mercury Seven astronaut. This captivating biography celebrates courage, innovation, and the spirit of exploration.
Themes
Quick Assessment
This is a Level 8-9 book with gentle content intensity. It's a Sweet Spot read — challenging text with gentle themes, ideal for advanced or 2e readers. No notable content concerns flagged. Written for readers ages 9-12.
For Parents
Content Intensity
Level 1 — GentleNo conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.
Was our "Gentle" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
7/10High engagement — fast-paced, fun, and hard to put down. Great for reluctant 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
- 0823944557
- Pages
- 112
- Publisher
- Rosen Reference
- Published
- February 2004
- Type
- Nonfiction
- Word Count
- 11,909
- Read-Aloud
- ~1h 19m
- Text Density
- Light Text