Altered states

Paddy Chayefsky

Cover of Altered states

Altered states

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

A Novel

by Paddy Chayefsky

Reading Level 4-5 9ME Ages 9-12 Matched

The text is written at a 4th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content has moderate intensity with some emotionally heavy themes.

We may earn a commission from these links. Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores with every purchase.

About This Book

This book claims to take you on the wildest ride inside a scientist's mind, where reality twists and turns like never before. Imagine being trapped in a dark tank, with your own thoughts turning into the scariest adventure of all. What happens when the search for where life begins becomes the scariest journey ever? That's the big question here.

Quick Assessment

Altered States is a middle-grade fiction book that explores a young scientist's experimental journey into altered consciousness using isolation and hallucinogenic drugs. The story delves into themes of perception and the origins of life through a suspenseful and somewhat intense narrative. It is suitable for ages 9-12 but includes elements that may prompt discussion about fear and altered mental states.

For Parents

Content Intensity

9ME — Moderate — Emotional
Emotional
Moderate
Physical
Light
Social
Clear
Thematic
Moderate

Real stakes and emotional weight. May include sustained danger, loss, or bullying.

Data confidence: standard

Was our "Moderate" 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
6
Theme Richness
3
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

Similar Books

Based on content and theme analysis

See all books like this →

Details

Book Length

184 pages
ISBN
0060107278
Pages
184
Publisher
HarperCollins Publishers
Published
1978
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Altered States of ConsciousnessAmerican FictionExperimental PsychologyScientistsPsychological Fiction