Playing With the Boys
Liz Tigelaar
Playing With the Boys
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
A Novel
by Liz Tigelaar
The text is written at a 6th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for teens (ages 13+), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.
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About This Book
The sharp whistle of the football cuts through the crisp Malibu air, the rough leather cool in Lucy's hands as she lines up for the big play. Every cheer from the crowd makes her heart race faster, and for the first time since her mom passed away, she feels powerful and alive. But keeping her secret from her dad is like holding her breath—how long can she keep it hidden?
Themes
Quick Assessment
This novel follows fifteen-year-old Lucy as she moves to Malibu and joins the varsity football team, finding strength and control after her mother's death. The story explores themes of grief, family dynamics, and self-discovery, appropriate for readers aged 13 to 18. Parents should note the presence of mild emotional challenges related to loss and overprotective parenting.
For Parents
Content Intensity
11LE — Light — EmotionalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
2/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
4/10Good conversation starter with themes worth exploring together.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9781595141132
- Pages
- 288
- Publisher
- Penguin
- Published
- April 10, 2008
- Type
- Fiction