Not So Stupid!
Malorie Blackman
Not So Stupid!
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
Incredible Short Stories
by Malorie Blackman
The text is written at a 4th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for teens (ages 13+), and the content has moderate intensity with some emotionally heavy themes.
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About This Book
The lights flicker as you hear a strange whisper in the dark. Suddenly, something moves just beyond your sight—what could it be? You’re not alone, but who or what is watching you?
Themes
Quick Assessment
This collection features a mix of science fiction and horror short stories aimed at teens aged 13 to 18. The stories include spooky and suspenseful elements that may be intense for younger readers, making this book best suited for mature young adults who enjoy thrilling and eerie tales.
Why we rated Not So Stupid! 9MP
Not So Stupid! is written at a Level 4-5 reading level across 160 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 5.5 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Not So Stupid! works for readers up to grade 6.5.
We rate Not So Stupid! as 9MP ("Moderate — Physical") because the content sits in the "Moderate" range — moderate conflict that may involve loss, scary scenes, or interpersonal stakes. The strongest signals come from physical peril — these are the dimensions parents should evaluate against their reader's tolerance.
Specific content flags noted by reviewers: Mild Peril, Fantasy Violence.
Thematically, Not So Stupid! explores short stories, horror & ghost stories, science & nature, and juvenile fiction — these threads give the book room to mean different things to different readers.
Good fit for
- ✓ Children in the Ages 13+ range — the maturity and attention span match the story's pacing.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about short stories, horror & ghost stories, science & nature.
Maybe not for
- ! Readers who get easily upset by emotional or moderately dark scenes — the conflict here is real, not just background flavor.
- ! Children who are sensitive to violence, even when handled at age-appropriate levels.
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
9MP — Moderate — PhysicalReal 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
1/10A 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
- 9780704349247
- Pages
- 160
- Publisher
- Womens PressLtd
- Published
- November 1, 1990
- Type
- Fiction