Overload
Arthur Hailey
Overload
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Arthur Hailey
The text is written at a 8th 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
Overload shows how one power outage can turn a whole city upside down, revealing secrets and testing friendships. When the lights go out, everything changes — can the characters handle the chaos? This story proves that even in darkness, courage shines brightest.
Themes
Quick Assessment
Overload is a contemporary middle-grade novel centered on a sudden citywide power outage that disrupts daily life and uncovers hidden tensions among its characters. Suitable for ages 9-12, it explores themes of resilience, community, and personal growth without any graphic content. Parents can expect a thoughtful story that encourages discussions about problem-solving and empathy.
For Parents
Content Intensity
Level 2 — MildLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
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
2/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9780553130287
- Pages
- 500
- Publisher
- Bantam Books
- Published
- 1979
- Type
- Fiction