Caught in the act

Moore, Peter

Cover of Caught in the act

Caught in the act

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Moore, Peter

Reading Level 6 11ME Ages 9-12 Matched

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

The sharp scent of old theater curtains fills the air as Ethan steps onto the school stage, his heart pounding beneath the spotlight. Everyone sees a perfect student, but inside, Ethan feels like he’s just playing a part. When a new classmate arrives, secrets start to crack the mask — and truths come tumbling out.

Themes

Self-realizationMental HealthFamilyHigh SchoolTheaterComing of Age

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade novel explores themes of self-identity and mental health through the story of Ethan, a high-achieving student who struggles with feeling like he's merely acting a role. The arrival of a new student who also faces her own challenges prompts Ethan to confront his true self. Suitable for ages 9-12, it thoughtfully addresses complex emotional topics with sensitivity.

For Parents

Content Intensity

11ME — Moderate — Emotional
Emotional
Moderate
Physical
Clear
Social
Light
Thematic
Moderate

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

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

4/10

Good conversation starter with themes worth exploring together.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
5
Emotional Weight
6
Theme Richness
6
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

260 pages
ISBN
0670059900
Pages
260
Publisher
Viking Children's Books
Published
2005
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Self-realizationTheaterMental IllnessFamily LifeHigh SchoolsSchoolsFamily