Refugees

Catherine Stine

Cover of Refugees

Refugees

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Catherine Stine

Reading Level 6 11LE Ages 9-12 Balanced Read

The text is written at a 6th 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: Dawn, a runaway from San Francisco, finds a surprising connection all the way across the world with Johar, a kind boy helping refugees in a camp. Their friendship grows through phone calls and emails, bridging two very different worlds — but that’s only the beginning.

Quick Assessment

Set in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, this middle-grade novel follows Dawn, a teenager running away from home, as she forms a meaningful bond with Johar, a boy aiding refugees in Pakistan. The story sensitively explores themes of displacement, cultural understanding, and friendship across borders, suitable for readers ages 9-12. Parents should note the historical context and the emotional challenges related to refugee experiences.

For Parents

Content Intensity

11LE — Light — Emotional
Emotional
Light
Physical
Clear
Social
Light
Thematic
Light

Light conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.

Data confidence: standard

Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

1/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

4/10

Good conversation starter with themes worth exploring together.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
5
Emotional Weight
4
Theme Richness
5
World Scope
5
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

277 pages
ISBN
9780440238768
Pages
277
Publisher
Laurel Leaf
Published
October 10, 2006
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

People & PlacesAsiaUnited StatesPerforming ArtsMusicSocial ThemesRunawaysEmigration & ImmigrationSeptember 11 Terrorist Attacks, 2001MusiciansRefugees

Places

AfghanistanNew York (N.Y.)