Catching
Virginia Allen Jensen
Catching
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
A Book for Blind and Sighted Children with Pictures to Feel as Well as to See
by Virginia Allen Jensen
The text is written at a 1st 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
Little Rough races through the playground, heart pounding as Little Shaggy is right behind! Suddenly, a clever idea sparks — but will it work before Shaggy tags him? The chase is on, and the surprise is just ahead!
Themes
Quick Assessment
This early reader story features Little Rough, who devises a playful plan to avoid being 'It' during a game of tag with Little Shaggy. The book includes raised, textured illustrations in simple shapes, making it perfect for young children, including those who are blind or visually impaired. Suitable for ages 5-8, it encourages tactile exploration alongside reading.
Why we rated Catching 6C
Catching is written at a Level 1-2 reading level across 23 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 2.5 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Catching works for readers up to grade 3.5.
We rate Catching as 6C ("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, Catching explores blind representation, play, shapes, and textures — 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 blind representation, play, shapes.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
6C — 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
- 0399209972
- Pages
- 23
- Publisher
- Philomel
- Published
- 1983
- Type
- Fiction