Hard Ball
Will Weaver
Hard Ball
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Will Weaver
The text is written at a 6th 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
The crack of a baseball echoes through the summer air, sweat stings Billy's eyes, and the smell of fresh-cut grass fills the field. Rivalry burns hotter than the sun as Billy and King Kenwood clash not just in the game but beyond the diamond. When their feud turns fierce, could spending a whole week together change everything — or will it only deepen the divide?
Themes
Quick Assessment
Hard Ball is a middle-grade novel about a deep-seated rivalry between two young baseball players that escalates into violence, prompting their coach to intervene with an unusual plan. The story explores themes of competition, family struggles, and self-discovery, making it suitable for ages 9-12. Parents should note the depiction of physical conflict and emotional challenges tied to family dynamics.
For Parents
Content Intensity
Level 2 — MildLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
2/10A 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
- 9780064472081
- Pages
- 256
- Publisher
- Harper Collins
- Published
- April 30, 1999
- Type
- Fiction