What reading level is Gut Check?

Gut Check by Eric Kester is at a Level 6 reading level. Recommended for Middle Grades readers (Ages 9-12).

What age is Gut Check appropriate for?

Gut Check is recommended for Ages 9-12. HootRating: 11ME (Moderate — Emotional).

What genre is Gut Check?

Gut Check is fiction — Young Adult Fiction.

Does Gut Check have any content warnings?

Gut Check has a HootRating of 11ME (Moderate — Emotional). No specific content flags noted. On HootRated, every book is rated across four dimensions — emotional, physical, social, and thematic — to help parents make informed choices.

How many pages is Gut Check?

Gut Check by Eric Kester is 288 pages.

Gut Check

Eric Kester

Gut Check

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

A Novel

by Eric Kester

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

Wyatt's dream isn't just about football—it's about saving his brother and their small town from falling apart. But when a big win means hiding a dangerous secret, can Wyatt choose what really matters? The game has just begun, and everything is on the line.

Themes

Friendship Family Humor Sports Coming of Age

Quick Assessment

Gut Check is a middle-grade novel that addresses themes of brotherhood, body image, and the challenges of toxic masculinity through the lens of a high school football drama. Suitable for ages 9-12, it includes discussions of sports injuries like concussions and the pressures of scholarship. The story balances humor with honest exploration of difficult topics, making it a thoughtful read for young readers navigating complex emotions.