Hiroshima

John Hersey

Cover of Hiroshima

Hiroshima

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by John Hersey

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

The sharp whistle of falling bombs fills the air, mixing with the heavy smell of smoke and dust. Buildings crumble and the city shakes as people struggle to understand what’s happening around them. Amid the chaos, stories of courage and hope begin to emerge, even in the darkest moments.

Themes

HistoryWorld War IIMilitarySurvivalFamily

Quick Assessment

This historical fiction book explores the impact of the atomic bombing on Hiroshima during World War II through personal stories of survival and resilience. Suitable for middle-grade readers, it provides a sensitive yet honest portrayal of a difficult event, including a reflective chapter written decades later. Parents should note the book deals with war, loss, and the aftermath of a devastating attack.

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

Loss & Grief Fear & Anxiety War & Conflict
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
8
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

142 pages
ISBN
9780590257626
Pages
142
Publisher
Scholastic Incorporated
Published
1995
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

MilitaryWorld War II