Holly's secret
Nancy Garden
Holly's secret
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Nancy Garden
The text is written at a 4th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.
We may earn a commission from these links. Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores with every purchase.
About This Book
Holly has a secret that could change everything—she has two moms who love each other, but not everyone understands that. When whispers start to spread at school, Holly must decide what bravery really means. How far will she go to protect her family and herself?
Themes
Quick Assessment
This middle-grade novel explores themes of identity, family diversity, and prejudice through the story of Holly, a girl with two mothers who are lesbians. Suitable for ages 9 to 12, it sensitively addresses the challenges children may face in school environments when their family background differs from the norm. Parents should be aware it includes discussions about LGBTQ+ family structures and societal prejudices.
For Parents
Content Intensity
9LE — Light — EmotionalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
1/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
4/10Good conversation starter with themes worth exploring together.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
Similar Books
Based on content and theme analysis
Holly's heart
Beverly Lewis
Holly's heart
Beverly Lewis
Holly's first love
Beverly Lewis
Holly's first love
Beverly Lewis
Yearbook
Holly Bourne
Yearbook
Holly Bourne
Christmas for Holly.
Dorothy Hamilton
Christmas for Holly.
Dorothy Hamilton
Girlish
Lara Lillibridge
Girlish
Lara Lillibridge
LOVING SOMEONE ELSE (A Bantam Starfire Book)
Ellen Conford
LOVING SOMEONE ELSE (A Bantam Starfire Book)
Ellen Conford
Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 0374332738
- Pages
- 132
- Publisher
- Farrar, Straus & Giroux (BYR)
- Published
- 2000
- Type
- Fiction