Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh/Newbery Summer
Robert C. O'Brien
Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh/Newbery Summer
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Robert C. O'Brien
The text is written at a 6th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.
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About This Book
Mrs. Frisby isn’t just any mouse—she’s brave enough to face a ticking clock and a mysterious underground world of super-smart rats. These rats aren’t ordinary—they’ve escaped science experiments and hold secrets that could save her family. What happens when courage meets cleverness in a race against time?
Themes
Quick Assessment
This Newbery Medal-winning novel follows Mrs. Frisby, a widowed mouse who must protect her family by seeking help from highly intelligent rats living beneath a rosebush. The story explores themes of bravery, problem-solving, and cooperation, well-suited for readers ages 9-12. It contains mild peril but no graphic content, making it an excellent choice for middle-grade readers interested in classic adventure and animal characters.
For Parents
Content Intensity
Level 2 — MildLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
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
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9780689862205
- Pages
- 240
- Publisher
- Aladdin Paperbacks
- Published
- May 1, 2003
- Type
- Fiction