Atherton
Patrick Carman
Atherton
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
house of power
by Patrick Carman
Atherton
The text is written at a 6th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.
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About This Book
Eleven-year-old Edgar uncovers hidden truths about Atherton, a city sharply divided by social class, just as dangerous earthquakes begin to shake its foundations. As the earth shifts, so does the balance of power, challenging the world Edgar knows and sparking friendships that could change everything. Adventure and secrets collide in a thrilling tale of courage and discovery.
Themes
Quick Assessment
This is a Level 6-7 book with mild content intensity. Content themes include mild peril. Written for readers ages 9-12.
Why we rated Atherton 11LP
Atherton is written at a Level 6-7 reading level. Strong independent readers around grade 7.1 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Atherton works for readers up to grade 8.1.
We rate Atherton as 11LP ("Light — Physical") because the content sits in the "Mild" range — mild conflict — the kind a child encounters in normal play and sibling life. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly mild; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
Specific content flags noted by reviewers: Mild Peril.
Thematically, Atherton explores social classes, friendship, earthquakes, orphans, and adventure — these threads give the book room to mean different things to different readers.
Good fit for
- ✓ Children in the Ages 9-12 range — the maturity and attention span match the story's pacing.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about social classes, friendship, earthquakes.
Maybe not for
- ! Readers whose emotional readiness lags behind their decoding skills — this book's intensity outruns its reading level, a classic "gifted kid" mismatch.
For Parents
Content Intensity
11LP — Light — PhysicalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
4/10A 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
- ISBN
- 9780316166706
- Publisher
- Little, Brown and Company
- Published
- 2007
- Type
- Fiction