I know where my food goes
Jacqui Maynard
I know where my food goes
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Jacqui Maynard
Illustrated by McEwen, Katharine, illustrator
The text is written at a 2nd grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for younger children (ages 5–8), and the content is gentle with no concerning themes.
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About This Book
Have you ever wondered what happens to your food after you take a bite? Sam and his mom explore the amazing journey inside your body, from the mouth all the way through the digestive system. But how does your body turn food into energy? The adventure is just beginning!
Themes
Quick Assessment
This picture book introduces young readers to the digestive process through a simple, engaging conversation between Sam and his mother. Suitable for early readers aged 5 to 8, it explains basic anatomy and digestion in an accessible way without any distressing content. The book supports early science literacy and curiosity about the human body.
Why we rated I know where my food goes 7C
I know where my food goes is written at a Level 2 reading level across 26 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 3.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, I know where my food goes works for readers up to grade 4.0.
We rate I know where my food goes as 7C ("Clear") because the content sits in the "Gentle" range — no conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly gentle; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the gentle intensity score.
Thematically, I know where my food goes weaves together science & nature and family.
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 science & nature, family.
- ✓ Curious kids who prefer real-world topics over made-up stories.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
7C — ClearNo conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.
Was our "Gentle" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
1/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
1/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9781586050825
- Pages
- 26
- Publisher
- LEAP FROG
- Published
- 2001
- Type
- Nonfiction