Caught by the Sea

Gary Paulsen

Cover of Caught by the Sea

Caught by the Sea

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

My Life on Boats

by Gary Paulsen

Reading Level 4-5 9ME Ages 13+ Matched

The text is written at a 4th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for teens (ages 13+), and the content has moderate intensity with some emotionally heavy themes.

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About This Book

The sea is roaring, and the boat rocks wildly under a dark sky. Another wave crashes, threatening to swallow everything—what can Gary do to save himself and the boat? The danger isn’t over yet, and every moment counts.

Themes

AdventureBiography & AutobiographyNatureComing of Age

Quick Assessment

Caught by the Sea is a gripping narrative by Gary Paulsen that recounts his harrowing first sailing experience and his lifelong passion for the ocean. Suitable for teens, this book blends adventure and personal reflection, with vivid descriptions of natural beauty alongside moments of genuine peril. Parents should note the book includes themes of survival and risk-taking in a maritime setting.

For Parents

Content Intensity

9ME — Moderate — Emotional
Emotional
Moderate
Physical
Moderate
Social
Clear
Thematic
Clear

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

Content Flags

Mild Peril Fear & Anxiety
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

2/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

3/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
4
Emotional Weight
6
Theme Richness
6
World Scope
3
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

103 pages
ISBN
9780440407164
Pages
103
Publisher
Laurel Leaf
Published
September 9, 2003
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Young Adult NonfictionBiography & AutobiographyLiteraryAdventure & AdventurersSports & RecreationOcean TravelSailingBoats and BoatingTravelAmerican AuthorsNonfictionLarge Type BooksAuthors, American

People

Gary Paulsen