Each according to his ability
Margaret Richardson Marshall
Each according to his ability
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
A List of Books and Other Visual Materials for Use by and with Mentally Handicapped Children
by Margaret Richardson Marshall
The text is written at a 2nd grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for younger children (ages 5–8), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.
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About This Book
The classroom buzzes as the teacher hands out colorful books. A little voice whispers, 'Can I do it all by myself?' Suddenly, a surprising challenge pops up—will everyone find their own way to shine?
Quick Assessment
This early reader fiction book focuses on children with mental disabilities, promoting inclusivity and understanding. Geared towards ages 5-8 and reading level Grade 2.0, it encourages young readers to appreciate diverse abilities through engaging storytelling.
Why we rated Each according to his ability 7LE
Each according to his ability is written at a Level 2 reading level across 24 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 3.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Each according to his ability works for readers up to grade 4.0.
We rate Each according to his ability as 7LE ("Light — Emotional") because the content sits in the "Mild" range — mild conflict — the kind a child encounters in normal play and sibling life. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly mild; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the mild intensity score.
Thematically, Each according to his ability explores disability representation, friendship, coming of age, and family — 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 disability representation, friendship, coming of age.
- ✓ Curious kids who prefer real-world topics over made-up stories.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
7LE — Light — EmotionalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
1/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
3/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 0900641266
- Pages
- 24
- Publisher
- Oxford : School Library Association
- Published
- 1975
- Type
- Nonfiction