Robert Smalls

Robert Francis Kennedy

Cover of Robert Smalls

Robert Smalls

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Robert Francis Kennedy

American Heroes (Hyperion)

Reading Level 8-9 Moderate (Lvl 3) Ages 9-12 Balanced Read Rich Discussion

The text is written at a 8th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content has moderate intensity with some emotionally heavy themes.

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About This Book

Under the cover of night, Robert Smalls led a daring escape by stealing a Confederate warship and delivering it safely to Union forces, proving the courage and determination of enslaved people seeking freedom. Rising to become a respected naval captain and inspiring speaker, Smalls played a vital role in reshaping history and breaking down barriers during the Civil War. His story celebrates bravery, leadership, and the fight for justice in a time of great turmoil.

Quick Assessment

This is a Level 8-9 book with moderate content intensity. Content themes include physical danger, war & conflict, racial discrimination. Written for readers ages 9-12.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 3 — Moderate
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

Real stakes and emotional weight. May include sustained danger, loss, or bullying.

Content Flags

Physical Danger War & Conflict Racial Discrimination Loss & Grief
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

6/10

Engaging read with solid pacing and interesting themes.

Discussion Potential

8/10

Rich themes that spark meaningful family conversation. Great for book clubs and read-alouds.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
7
Emotional Weight
6
Narrative Pace
5
Theme Richness
10
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
8

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Details

Book Length

40 pages
6,091 words
41m read-aloud
ISBN
9781423108023
Pages
40
Publisher
Hyperion
Published
2008
Type
Nonfiction
Word Count
6,091
Read-Aloud
~41 min
Text Density
Standard

Genres

Subjects

Smalls, Robert,1839-1915African AmericansFugitive SlavesUnited StatesSlavesCivil War, 1861-1865Participation, African American