Between the Shadows (Nightbane Series Vol 1)
C. J. Carella
Between the Shadows (Nightbane Series Vol 1)
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by C. J. Carella
Illustrated by Randy Post
The text is written at a 4th 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
Have you ever wondered what hides just beyond the shadows you see? Imagine a secret world filled with mysterious creatures called the Nightbane, living between our world and the unknown. What happens when you find out you belong to this hidden realm?
Quick Assessment
Between the Shadows introduces middle-grade readers to a mysterious supernatural world inhabited by the Nightbane, beings who exist in a hidden reality alongside ours. Suitable for ages 9-12, this book blends fantasy and mystery with themes of discovery and adventure. Parents should note the book involves supernatural elements and some suspense but is appropriate for its target audience.
Why we rated Between the Shadows (Nightbane Series Vol 1) 9LP
Between the Shadows (Nightbane Series Vol 1) is written at a Level 4-5 reading level across 160 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 5.5 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Between the Shadows (Nightbane Series Vol 1) works for readers up to grade 6.5.
We rate Between the Shadows (Nightbane Series Vol 1) as 9LP ("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, Fantasy Violence.
Thematically, Between the Shadows (Nightbane Series Vol 1) explores mystery, fantasy world-building, adventure, friendship, and coming of age — 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 mystery, fantasy world-building, adventure.
Maybe not for
- ! Children who are sensitive to violence, even when handled at age-appropriate levels.
For Parents
Content Intensity
9LP — 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
3/10A 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
- 9780916211905
- Pages
- 160
- Publisher
- Palladium Books
- Published
- January 1996
- Type
- Fiction