Mr. Lincoln's drummer

G. Clifton Wisler

Cover of Mr. Lincoln's drummer

Mr. Lincoln's drummer

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by G. Clifton Wisler

Reading Level 5-6 Moderate (Lvl 3) Ages 9-12 Matched Rich Discussion

The text is written at a 5th 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

Amid the chaos of the Civil War, eleven-year-old Willie Johnston bravely serves as a drummer, showing remarkable courage beyond his years. His daring actions earn him the prestigious Congressional Medal of Honor, making him the youngest recipient in history. Experience the challenges and heroism of a young boy caught in one of America's toughest times.

Quick Assessment

This is a Level 5-6 book with moderate content intensity. Content themes include war & conflict, physical danger, loss & grief. Written for readers ages 9-12.

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

War & Conflict Physical Danger Loss & Grief
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
4
Emotional Weight
6
Narrative Pace
3
Theme Richness
7
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
8

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Details

Book Length

131 pages
33,707 words
3h 45m read-aloud
ISBN
0525674632
Pages
131
Publisher
Dutton Juvenile
Published
1995
Type
Fiction
Word Count
33,707
Read-Aloud
~3h 45m
Text Density
Dense

Genres

Subjects

Johnston, William J., 1850-United StatesCivil War, 1861-1865