Karen's Promise
Ann M. Martin
Karen's Promise
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Ann M. Martin
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 gentle with no concerning themes.
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About This Book
Karen faces a tough choice when her mom and stepdad plan a six-month move to Chicago—should she keep her promise to go along or stay behind with her other family in Stoneybrook? Navigating loyalty, family ties, and change, Karen learns what it means to balance love and commitment. This heartfelt story captures the challenges of blended families and the strength found in making difficult decisions.
Themes
Quick Assessment
This is a Level 4-5 book with gentle content intensity. No notable content concerns flagged. Written for readers ages 9-12.
For Parents
Content Intensity
Level 1 — GentleNo conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.
Was our "Gentle" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
7/10High engagement — fast-paced, fun, and hard to put down. Great for reluctant 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
- 0590065939
- Pages
- 98
- Publisher
- Scholastic Paperbacks
- Published
- March 1998
- Type
- Fiction
- Word Count
- 10,402
- Read-Aloud
- ~1h 9m
- Text Density
- Light Text