Smith
Leon Garfield
Smith
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Leon Garfield
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
What if a simple name held the key to an incredible adventure? In a world filled with secrets and danger, Smith must navigate a maze of mystery set against the backdrop of historical Europe. But can he uncover the truth before time runs out?
Themes
Quick Assessment
Smith is a middle-grade historical adventure novel suitable for children ages 9 to 12. It combines action and suspense with a rich European setting, engaging readers with a compelling plot that encourages critical thinking and exploration of history. Parents should note that while the story includes moments of tension and danger, it remains appropriate for this age group without graphic content.
Why we rated Smith 11LP
Smith is written at a Level 6 reading level across 288 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 7.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Smith works for readers up to grade 8.0.
We rate Smith as 11LP ("Light — Physical") 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.
Specific content flags noted by reviewers: Mild Peril.
Thematically, Smith explores adventure, historical, action & adventure, and fiction — 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 adventure, historical, action & adventure.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
11LP — Light — PhysicalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
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
- 9780141319711
- Pages
- 288
- Publisher
- Penguin UK
- Published
- November 25, 2004
- Type
- Fiction