One true way

Shannon Hitchcock

Cover of One true way

One true way

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Shannon Hitchcock

Reading Level 4 Moderate (Lvl 3) Ages 9-12 Heads Up Rich Discussion

The text is written at a 4th 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

Set in the 1970s, this heartfelt story follows a young girl navigating the challenges of growing up while discovering her identity and facing the difficulties of being different in her community. Through her journey, readers gain insight into the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth and the importance of acceptance and understanding. It's a powerful exploration of family, friendship, and self-discovery.

Quick Assessment

This is a Level 4 book with moderate content intensity. Content themes include identity & self-discovery, family change, social discrimination. 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

Identity & Self-Discovery Family Change Social Discrimination
Data confidence: high

Was our "Moderate" content intensity rating accurate for this book?

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

3/10

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
3
Emotional Weight
6
Narrative Pace
7
Theme Richness
7
World Scope
5
Data Confidence
8

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Details

Book Length

213 pages
31,477 words
3h 30m read-aloud
ISBN
9781338181722
Pages
213
Publisher
Scholastic, Incorporated
Published
2018
Type
Fiction
Word Count
31,477
Lexile
560L
Read-Aloud
~3h 30m
Text Density
Light Text

Genres

Subjects

Social Life and CustomsFamiliesBereavementLesbiansMothers and DaughtersFriendshipIdentityFamilyGriefNorth CarolinaFamily LifeWomen

Places

North Carolina