Saying goodbye

Marie G. Lee

Cover of Saying goodbye

Saying goodbye

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Marie G. Lee

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

The crisp rustle of autumn leaves fills the Harvard campus as Ellen steps into a new world of stories and self-discovery. She senses the hum of ancient halls and the quiet heartbeat of her Korean roots weaving through her days. As friendships deepen and challenges arise, Ellen's journey is just beginning—and the goodbyes she faces will change her forever.

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade novel follows Ellen Sung during her freshman year at Harvard, where she explores creative writing and her Korean heritage. The story thoughtfully addresses themes of identity, friendship, and cultural understanding, making it suitable for readers aged 9-12. Parents should note that it lightly touches on prejudice and the challenges of adapting to a new environment.

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
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

219 pages
ISBN
0395670667
Pages
219
Publisher
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Published
1994
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Harvard UniversityKorean AmericansUniversities and CollegesPrejudicesFriendshipAuthorshipKoreansUnited States