Dust

Christine Bongers

Cover of Dust

Dust

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Christine Bongers

Reading Level 5-6 Intense (Lvl 4) Ages 11+ Heads Up Rich Discussion

The text is written at a 5th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for older middle graders (ages 11+), and the content is intense and may include graphic or distressing scenes.

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About This Book

Set in the scorching Queensland of the 1970s, 12-year-old Cecilia faces challenges both at home and from the neighboring farm's rival girls. As she navigates family struggles and complex relationships, she uncovers harsh truths about abuse and loyalty. This coming-of-age tale explores the blurred lines between reality and perception in a tough world.

Quick Assessment

This is a Level 5-6 book with intense content intensity. Content themes include profanity, sexual references, bullying. Written for readers ages 11+.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 4 — Intense
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

Heavy themes explored in depth. War, death, abuse addressed directly.

Content Flags

Profanity Sexual References Bullying Family Change Identity & Self-Discovery
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

2/10

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
4
Emotional Weight
8
Narrative Pace
5
Theme Richness
9
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
6

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Details

Book Length

240 pages
47,833 words
5h 19m read-aloud
ISBN
9781741664461
Pages
240
Publisher
Random House Australia
Published
2009
Type
Fiction
Word Count
47,833
Read-Aloud
~5h 19m
Text Density
Standard

Subjects

Young Adult Fiction