American Soldier Proud and Free
Kimberly Jo Simac
American Soldier Proud and Free
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Kimberly Jo Simac
Illustrated by Donna Goeddaeus
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 boy stands tall, eyes shining with pride as he watches the soldiers march by. His heart beats fast, full of thanks for their bravery and strength. But what will he do to show his own courage?
Themes
Quick Assessment
This early reader book introduces young children to themes of patriotism and gratitude by following a young boy who admires American soldiers. Suitable for ages 5 to 8, it uses simple language and positive messages to foster appreciation of service and country. The content is gentle and appropriate for early readers without any challenging topics.
Why we rated American Soldier Proud and Free 7C
American Soldier Proud and Free 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, American Soldier Proud and Free works for readers up to grade 4.0.
We rate American Soldier Proud and Free 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, American Soldier Proud and Free explores patriotism, family, and friendship — 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 patriotism, family, friendship.
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
- 9780976393122
- Pages
- 32
- Publisher
- Great Northern Adventure Co., Inc.
- Published
- November 15, 2007
- Type
- Fiction