Darby

Jonathon Scott Fuqua

Cover of Darby

Darby

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Jonathon Scott Fuqua

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

What would you do if your words could change the world but also put you in danger? In 1926 South Carolina, nine-year-old Darby writes a story that challenges the unfair rules of her town. Can her courage inspire others, or will it spark more trouble?

Quick Assessment

Set in 1926 South Carolina, this historical fiction follows nine-year-old Darby Carmichael as she bravely confronts racial prejudice by writing a newspaper story promoting equality. Suitable for ages 9-12, the book explores themes of social justice and racism in an accessible way, offering a thoughtful look at history and courage. Parents should note the portrayal of racial tensions reflective of the era.

For Parents

Content Intensity

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

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

5/10

Good conversation starter with themes worth exploring together.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

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

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Details

Book Length

256 pages
ISBN
9780763622909
Pages
256
Publisher
Candlewick Press
Published
September 12, 2006
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Social IssuesPrejudice & RacismPeople & PlacesUnited StatesAfrican-AmericanEthnicAfrican AmericanFriendshipJournalistsRace RelationsRacismPrejudicesAfrican AmericansRacially Mixed PeopleSouth Carolina

Places

South Carolina