Pocket Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue
Steve Mockus
Pocket Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Steve Mockus
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
Did you know that some words we say today started as secret slang in 18th-century London? Imagine learning the hidden meanings behind silly and surprising phrases from the past that people whispered in taverns and dark streets. This book shows how those old-timey words can make your conversations more fun and full of history!
Themes
Quick Assessment
This book introduces young readers to unique historical slang from 18th-century London, blending humor with language learning. Appropriate for ages 9-12, it offers an entertaining glimpse into the origins of some everyday expressions, though parents should be aware of its inclusion of mild profane language and references to adult themes in a historical context. It serves as a fun, educational resource for kids interested in language, history, and British culture.
Why we rated Pocket Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue 9LS
Pocket Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue is written at a Level 4-5 reading level across 177 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 5.5 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Pocket Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue works for readers up to grade 6.5.
We rate Pocket Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue as 9LS ("Light — Social") 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, Pocket Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue explores humor, english, historical, and reference — 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 humor, english, historical.
- ✓ 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
9LS — Light — SocialLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
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
2/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9781797203430
- Pages
- 177
- Publisher
- Chronicle Books
- Published
- 2020
- Type
- Nonfiction