Shrapnel

Robert Swindells

Cover of Shrapnel

Shrapnel

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Robert Swindells

Reading Level 6 Moderate (Lvl 3) Ages 9-12 Matched

The text is written at a 6th 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

The sharp crack of distant explosions fills the air, mingling with the acrid smell of smoke and dust. Gordon's heart pounds as he searches for his brother Raymond, who vanished when the war began. But can he trust Raymond's secret agent story, or is something else hiding beneath the surface?

Themes

FamilyHistory & Historical FictionWar & ConflictAdventureTrust

Quick Assessment

Set during World War II, this novel follows Gordon as he searches for his missing older brother, Raymond, who claims to be a secret government agent. Suitable for middle-grade readers, the story explores themes of family, trust, and the impact of war on children. Parents should note mild wartime peril and emotional tension but no graphic content.

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

Mild Peril Fear & Anxiety War & Conflict
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

2/10

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
6
Theme Richness
8
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

208 pages
ISBN
9780552559300
Pages
208
Publisher
Corgi Childrens
Published
February 9, 2009
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

History & Historical FictionMilitary & WarsLiteratureAction & AdventureTeensHistorical FictionLiterature & FictionAdventure & ThrillersAdventure and AdventurersStorytellingMissing PersonsWorld War1939-1945BrothersWorld War, 1939-1945Children's Non-fiction