Bullyville

Francine Prose

Cover of Bullyville

Bullyville

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Francine Prose

Reading Level 6 Moderate (Lvl 3) Ages 9-12 Matched Rich Discussion

The text is written at a 6th 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.

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About This Book

Bart stands frozen as the bully shoves him against the locker, the hall buzzing with whispers about his father. The pain of loss feels sharper here, in a place that's supposed to be safe. But when will Bart find the courage to fight back?

Themes

Coming of AgeFamilySchool & EducationBullyingSocial Justice

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade novel follows thirteen-year-old Bart as he copes with the aftermath of losing his father in the 9/11 tragedy while attending a new preparatory school. The story explores themes of grief, guilt, bullying, and resilience, making it suitable for readers aged 9-12 who can handle emotional depth and mild conflict. Parents should be aware of the sensitive topics surrounding loss and school bullying.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 3 — Moderate
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

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

Content Flags

Loss & Grief Bullying Fear & Anxiety
Data confidence: standard

Was our "Moderate" content intensity rating accurate for this book?

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

1/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

7/10

Rich themes that spark meaningful family conversation. Great for book clubs and read-alouds.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
5
Emotional Weight
6
Theme Richness
8
World Scope
3
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

272 pages
ISBN
9780060574970
Pages
272
Publisher
Harper Collins
Published
September 1, 2007
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Law & CrimePeople & PlacesUnited StatesSchool & EducationSocial ThemesAdolescence & Coming of AgeDeath, Grief, BereavementPeer PressureBullyingDeathPreparatory SchoolsBulliesGriefSeptember 11 Terrorist Attacks, 2001SchoolsYoung Adult FictionLarge Type BooksNew JerseyTerrorism

Places

New Jersey