Pass the buck
Michael Dahl
Pass the buck
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
A Fun Song about the Famous Faces and Places on American Money
by Michael Dahl
The text is written at a 2nd grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for younger children (ages 5–8), and the content is gentle with no concerning themes.
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About This Book
Have you ever wondered whose face you see on a penny or a dollar bill? Imagine a catchy song that dances through the stories behind the coins and paper money we use every day. Who are these famous people, and why do they belong on money? That's the mystery waiting to be uncovered!
Themes
Quick Assessment
This early-reader book introduces children ages 5-8 to the faces and stories behind American coins and paper money through a fun, musical format. Set to the tune of 'This Old Man,' it combines simple text and song to engage young readers with basic U.S. history and currency concepts. The content is appropriate for early learners with no complex themes or conflicts.
Why we rated Pass the buck 7C
Pass the buck is written at a Level 2 reading level across 24 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 3.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Pass the buck works for readers up to grade 4.0.
We rate Pass the buck as 7C ("Clear") because the content sits in the "Gentle" range — no conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly gentle; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the gentle intensity score.
Thematically, Pass the buck explores american history, money and currency, songs and music, and early learning — these threads give the book room to mean different things to different readers.
Good fit for
- ✓ Children in the Ages 5-8 range — the maturity and attention span match the story's pacing.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about american history, money and currency, songs and music.
- ✓ 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
7C — ClearNo conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.
Was our "Gentle" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
1/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
1/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9781404801325
- Pages
- 24
- Publisher
- Capstone
- Published
- 2004
- Type
- Nonfiction