Out with it
Al Desetta
Out with it
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
Gay and Straight Teens Write about Homosexuality
by Al Desetta
The text is written at a 4th 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
Here's a secret: some stories are hidden deep inside, waiting to be told. Imagine finding the courage to share your true self with the world, even when it's scary. But that's only the beginning.
Themes
Quick Assessment
This middle-grade novel explores the personal writings of gay teenagers navigating their identities in contemporary America. Suitable for ages 9-12, it offers an honest look at self-discovery and acceptance, with themes of homosexuality and adolescent growth presented thoughtfully. Parents should know it sensitively addresses topics of identity and personal expression.
Why we rated Out with it 9LE
Out with it is written at a Level 4-5 reading level across 153 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 5.5 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Out with it works for readers up to grade 6.5.
We rate Out with it as 9LE ("Light — Emotional") 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.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the mild intensity score.
Thematically, Out with it explores lgbtq+ representation, coming of age, teenagers, and family — 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.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about lgbtq+ representation, coming of age, teenagers.
- ✓ Curious kids who prefer real-world topics over made-up stories.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
9LE — Light — EmotionalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
1/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
3/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9781933939728
- Pages
- 153
- Publisher
- Youth Communication, New York Center
- Published
- 2009
- Type
- Nonfiction