Murder Off the Glass
David L. Katz
Murder Off the Glass
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by David L. Katz
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
What happens when the lights go out during a big basketball game? Suddenly, the crowd's roar turns into a whisper of suspicion as Andy Sussman learns his broadcasting partner, Lester, has been found murdered. Who could have done it, and will Andy uncover the truth before the game ends?
Quick Assessment
This middle-grade mystery follows Andy Sussman, a young radio broadcaster who faces the challenge of solving a murder during a basketball game blackout. Suitable for ages 9-12, the story explores themes of suspense and detective work without graphic content, making it appropriate for young readers interested in mystery and problem-solving.
Why we rated Murder Off the Glass 11LP
Murder Off the Glass is written at a Level 6 reading level across 224 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 7.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Murder Off the Glass works for readers up to grade 8.0.
We rate Murder Off the Glass as 11LP ("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.
Specific content flags noted by reviewers: Mild Peril.
Thematically, Murder Off the Glass explores mystery, adventure, and friendship — 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.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about mystery, adventure, friendship.
Maybe not for
- ! Readers looking for something heavier — this is a gentle, low-stakes story by design.
For Parents
Content Intensity
11LP — Light — PhysicalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
3/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient 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
- 9780671646677
- Pages
- 224
- Publisher
- Published
- January 2, 1988
- Type
- Fiction