First King of England

Stuart Hill

Cover of First King of England

First King of England

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

the Story of Athelstan

by Stuart Hill

Reading Level 4-5 9LE Ages 9-12 Balanced Read

The text is written at a 4th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.

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About This Book

Edwin barely dodges a fierce blow in the middle of a chaotic battle, his heart pounding as he stares down the future king, Athelstan. Suddenly, he’s not just a shoemaker’s son anymore—he’s the king’s body-servant, right in the thick of the fight for England’s future. But when enemies close in from every side, will their friendship be enough to keep them alive?

Quick Assessment

This historical fiction novel follows fourteen-year-old Edwin, who becomes the body-servant and close companion of Athelstan, the Saxon king striving to unite England. The story offers an exciting, accessible introduction to Saxon Britain with vivid characters and action-packed scenes suitable for middle-grade readers. Parents should note the book includes battle scenes and themes of loyalty and friendship, appropriate for ages 9-12.

For Parents

Content Intensity

9LE — Light — Emotional
Emotional
Light
Physical
Light
Social
Clear
Thematic
Clear

Light conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.

Data confidence: standard

Was our "Mild" 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
4
Theme Richness
5
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

193 pages
ISBN
9781472951762
Pages
193
Publisher
Bloomsbury Publishing
Published
2018
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

KingsQueensRulersEtcEngland