Sour Land (Harper Trophy Books)
William H. Armstrong
Sour Land (Harper Trophy Books)
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by William H. Armstrong
The text is written at a 5th 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
Three children struggle to find hope after losing their mother, while their hardworking father tries to keep their farm alive on the harsh, infertile land known as Sour Land. When Moses Waters arrives as the new teacher at the local school, his unique ability to connect with nature and the Stone family offers a glimmer of healing. Yet, their growing friendship faces harsh opposition from those in town unwilling to accept change, threatening their safety and unity.
Quick Assessment
This is a Level 5-6 book with moderate content intensity. Content themes include loss & grief, racial discrimination, physical danger. Written for readers ages 9-12.
For Parents
Content Intensity
Level 3 — ModerateReal stakes and emotional weight. May include sustained danger, loss, or bullying.
Content Flags
Was our "Moderate" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
2/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
7/10Rich themes that spark meaningful family conversation. Great for book clubs and read-alouds.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 0064400743
- Pages
- 128
- Publisher
- HarperCollins
- Published
- November 1, 1991
- Type
- Fiction
- Word Count
- 27,503
- Read-Aloud
- ~3h 3m
- Text Density
- Standard