Hero of Lesser Causes

John Johnston

Cover of Hero of Lesser Causes

Hero of Lesser Causes

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by John Johnston

Reading Level 4-5 Moderate (Lvl 3) Ages 9-12 Matched

The text is written at a 4th 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

What would you do if someone you love suddenly couldn't move? Twelve-year-old Keely watches her brother Patrick struggle after polio steals his strength. Determined to bring back his spark, she begins a campaign that could change everything—but will it be enough?

Themes

FamilyHealth & MedicineJuvenile FictionComing of Age

Quick Assessment

Set in 1946, this middle-grade novel follows twelve-year-old Keely as she copes with her brother Patrick's paralysis due to polio. The story sensitively explores themes of family, illness, and resilience, making it suitable for children ages 9 to 12. Parents should note the book addresses serious health challenges but in a hopeful and age-appropriate manner.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 3 — Moderate
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

Real stakes and emotional weight. May include sustained danger, loss, or bullying.

Content Flags

Illness & Injury Loss & Grief
Data confidence: standard

Was our "Moderate" content intensity rating accurate for this book?

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

1/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

6/10

Good conversation starter with themes worth exploring together.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
4
Emotional Weight
6
Theme Richness
6
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

ISBN
9780613773140
Publisher
Turtleback
Published
September 2003
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

FamilySiblingsHealth & MedicineDiseases