At the side of David
Eric Pakulak
At the side of David
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
A Multiple-Ending Bible Adventure
by Eric Pakulak
The text is written at a 3rd 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 sharp clang of swords fills the air as David faces the giant Goliath. You can feel the rough stone under your feet and the pounding of your heart as you stand right beside David. Every choice you make could change the fate of the battle and the kingdom.
Quick Assessment
This interactive fiction invites early readers to step into the story of David, King of Israel, making decisions alongside him in key moments like his battle with Goliath. Designed for ages 5-8, it encourages engagement with biblical stories through simple decision-making and imaginative play. The content is suitable for young children, with no intense or graphic scenes.
Why we rated At the side of David 8C
At the side of David is written at a Level 3 reading level across 87 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 4.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, At the side of David works for readers up to grade 5.0.
We rate At the side of David as 8C ("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, At the side of David explores adventure, historical, and family — 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 adventure, historical, family.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
8C — 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
2/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 0819807680
- Pages
- 87
- Publisher
- Pauline Books & Media
- Published
- 2000
- Type
- Fiction