In his father's footsteps

Danielle Steel

Cover of In his father's footsteps

In his father's footsteps

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

a novel

by Danielle Steel

Reading Level 8 Moderate (Lvl 3) Ages 9-12 Balanced Read Rich Discussion

The text is written at a 8th 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.

We may earn a commission from these links. Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores with every purchase.

About This Book

There’s a secret hidden in family stories—one that travels across oceans and through the toughest times. A young boy follows the path his father once took, stepping into a world of challenges and unexpected friendships, but that’s only the beginning.

Themes

Coming of AgeFamilyImmigrantsSocial MobilityHistorical

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade novel explores themes of family legacy, social mobility, and the immigrant experience, set against the backdrop of historical challenges including concentration camps. Suitable for ages 9-12, it introduces complex themes like man-woman relationships and wealth, making it important for parents to be aware of its mature topics. The story offers valuable lessons about resilience and identity while presenting sensitive historical content thoughtfully.

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 Identity & Self-Discovery Historical
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

7/10

Rich themes that spark meaningful family conversation. Great for book clubs and read-alouds.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
7
Emotional Weight
6
Theme Richness
9
World Scope
10
Data Confidence
7

Similar Books

Based on content and theme analysis

See all books like this →

Details

Book Length

416 pages
ISBN
9781984827647
Pages
416
Publisher
Random House Large Print
Published
2018
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Concentration CampsMan-woman RelationshipsWealthSocial MobilityImmigrantsAmericanizationFathers and SonsAmerican DreamWorld War, 1939-1945Adult Children of ImmigrantsJewish Historical FictionNew YorkJewsContemporary WomenFamily LifeRomanceContemporaryChildren of Holocaust SurvivorsEx-concentration Camp InmatesMarital ConflictMoral and Ethical AspectsPsychological Aspects

Places

United StatesNew YorkNew York (State)Lower East Side (New York, N.Y.)