Letters from a Slave Boy
Mary E. Lyons
Letters from a Slave Boy
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Mary E. Lyons
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
Experience the journey of Joseph Jacobs, a young boy born into slavery, through heartfelt letters that reveal his life from the fields of North Carolina to the bustling ports of New England and the rush of California’s goldfields. These letters capture his hopes, struggles, and adventures as he seeks freedom and a new life in a changing America. This powerful story brings history to life through the eyes of a courageous boy navigating a world full of challenges and dreams.
Quick Assessment
This is a Level 4-5 book with moderate content intensity. Content themes include historical slavery, emotional: fear & anxiety, emotional: identity & self-discovery. Written for readers ages 9-12.
For Parents
Content Intensity
Level 3 — ModerateReal stakes and emotional weight. May include sustained danger, loss, or bullying.
Content Flags
Was our "Moderate" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
3/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
5/10Good conversation starter with themes worth exploring together.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9780689878671
- Pages
- 208
- Published
- 9 January 2007
- Type
- Fiction
- Word Count
- 34,561
- Read-Aloud
- ~3h 50m
- Text Density
- Standard