Hickory and the Big Clock
A.E. Jaskiewicz
Hickory and the Big Clock
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by A.E. Jaskiewicz
The text is written at a 3rd grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for younger children (ages 5–8), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.
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About This Book
Hickory scurries up the towering clock, his tiny paws slipping on the cold metal. The chiming echoes louder with every step, but stopping it means peace for his family. Suddenly, a shadow looms—what’s waiting at the top?
Quick Assessment
This early reader follows Hickory, a small mouse determined to stop the incessant chiming of the big clock beneath which his family lives. The story encourages problem-solving and perseverance, suitable for children aged 5-8. It includes mild peril as Hickory faces challenges on his climb, but remains gentle and appropriate for young readers.
Why we rated Hickory and the Big Clock 8LE
Hickory and the Big Clock is written at a Level 3 reading level across 52 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 4.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Hickory and the Big Clock works for readers up to grade 5.0.
We rate Hickory and the Big Clock as 8LE ("Light — Emotional") because the content sits in the "Mild" range — mild conflict — the kind a child encounters in normal play and sibling life. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly mild; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the mild intensity score.
Thematically, Hickory and the Big Clock explores adventure, family, and friendship — 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 adventure, family, friendship.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
8LE — Light — EmotionalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
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
2/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9781424160242
- Pages
- 52
- Publisher
- Publishamerica Incorporated
- Published
- October 30, 2006
- Type
- Fiction