Medallion of the black hound
Jean Little
Medallion of the black hound
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Jean Little
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
The sharp clang of swords echoes through the misty forest, and a cold breeze carries the scent of ancient magic. David clutches the heavy Medallion of the Black Hound, its power humming against his chest as he steps into the mysterious world of Meryn. The fate of good and evil hangs in the balance, and David’s courage will be tested like never before.
Themes
Quick Assessment
This fantasy novel follows David, a young boy who is transported to the magical world of Meryn by the Medallion of the Black Hound. There, he becomes involved in an epic battle between good and evil. Suitable for readers aged 9 to 12, the story contains mild fantasy peril and themes of bravery and adventure.
Why we rated Medallion of the black hound 9LP
Medallion of the black hound is written at a Level 4-5 reading level across 182 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 5.5 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Medallion of the black hound works for readers up to grade 6.5.
We rate Medallion of the black hound as 9LP ("Light — Physical") because the content sits in the "Mild" range — mild conflict — the kind a child encounters in normal play and sibling life. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly mild; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the mild intensity score.
Thematically, Medallion of the black hound explores fantasy, adventure, and coming of age — these threads give the book room to mean different things to different readers.
Good fit for
- ✓ Children in the Ages 9-12 range — the maturity and attention span match the story's pacing.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about fantasy, adventure, coming of age.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
9LP — Light — PhysicalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
2/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
2/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
Similar Books
Based on content and theme analysis
Merlin and the making of the king
Margaret Hodges
Merlin and the making of the king
Margaret Hodges
A dangerous path
Jean Little
A dangerous path
Jean Little
Magical Lands of Midendhil
Davide Mazzoli
Magical Lands of Midendhil
Davide Mazzoli
The sword bearer
John White
The sword bearer
John White
Merlin's Mistake
Robert Newman
Merlin's Mistake
Robert Newman
The Copper Gauntlet
Holly Black
The Copper Gauntlet
Holly Black
Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 0060243686
- Pages
- 182
- Publisher
- Harpercollins Childrens Books
- Published
- 1989
- Type
- Fiction