Going swimming
Sarah Garland
Going swimming
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Sarah Garland
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 gentle with no concerning themes.
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About This Book
Swimming pools aren't just about splashes and fun—they're full of surprises too! Meet a family who turns a noisy, splashy day at the baths into an unforgettable adventure. Discover why even the busiest places can feel like home.
Quick Assessment
This charming picture book captures the lively atmosphere of a local swimming pool through the eyes of a familiar family from previous titles. Suitable for early readers aged 5-8, it offers an engaging glimpse into everyday family outings with gentle storytelling and vibrant illustrations. There is no intense content, making it appropriate for young children.
Why we rated Going swimming 7C
Going swimming is written at a Level 2 reading level across 26 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 3.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Going swimming works for readers up to grade 4.0.
We rate Going swimming as 7C ("Clear") because the content sits in the "Gentle" range — no conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly gentle; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the gentle intensity score.
Thematically, Going swimming explores family, everyday life, and adventure — 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 family, everyday life, adventure.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
7C — ClearNo conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.
Was our "Gentle" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
2/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
1/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 0140543562
- Pages
- 26
- Publisher
- Puffin HC
- Published
- 1992
- Type
- Fiction