What reading level is Our kindly parent, the State?

Our kindly parent, the State by Murphy, Patrick T. is at a Level 4-5 reading level. Recommended for Middle Grades readers (Ages 9-12).

What age is Our kindly parent, the State appropriate for?

Our kindly parent, the State is recommended for Ages 9-12. HootRating: 9ME (Moderate — Emotional).

What genre is Our kindly parent, the State?

Our kindly parent, the State is fiction — Child welfare.

Does Our kindly parent, the State have any content warnings?

Our kindly parent, the State has a HootRating of 9ME (Moderate — Emotional). No specific content flags noted. On HootRated, every book is rated across four dimensions — emotional, physical, social, and thematic — to help parents make informed choices.

How many pages is Our kindly parent, the State?

Our kindly parent, the State by Murphy, Patrick T. is 180 pages.

Our kindly parent, the State

Murphy, Patrick T.

Our kindly parent, the State

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

The Juvenile Justice System and how it Works

by Murphy, Patrick T.

Reading Level 4-5 9ME Ages 9-12 Matched

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

The faint clatter of footsteps echoes down cold, empty hallways where children wait, unsure of what comes next. Somewhere nearby, voices murmur plans that will change their lives forever. It’s a place where the line between help and control blurs, leaving young hearts full of hope and fear.

Themes

Juvenile JusticeChild WelfareFamily Social Justice

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade fiction explores the American juvenile justice system and its impact on children's lives through the eyes of a lawyer uncovering the complex network of institutions involved. Suitable for ages 9-12, it touches on sensitive topics like child welfare and juvenile courts, providing a thoughtful look at systemic control without graphic content. Parents should be aware that the book addresses serious social issues in a way accessible to younger readers.