Sparrow
Michael Morpurgo
Sparrow
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
The True Story of Joan of Arc
by Michael Morpurgo
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
Who really knew Joan of Arc better than anyone else? Imagine a tiny sparrow perched nearby, watching her brave every challenge that comes her way. What secrets will this little bird reveal about the girl destined to change France forever?
Themes
Quick Assessment
This middle-grade historical fiction novel tells the story of Joan of Arc through the eyes of a sparrow who is her closest companion. It explores themes of courage, perseverance, and sacrifice as Joan leads France against tyrants during a turbulent period in history. Suitable for ages 9-12, the book handles complex historical events in an accessible and inspiring way without graphic content.
Why we rated Sparrow 11LE
Sparrow is written at a Level 6 reading level across 256 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 7.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Sparrow works for readers up to grade 8.0.
We rate Sparrow as 11LE ("Light — Emotional") 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.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the mild intensity score.
Thematically, Sparrow explores historical, friendship, coming of age, family, and courage — 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.
- ✓ Readers ready to talk through themes after they finish — there's enough substance for a meaningful conversation.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about historical, friendship, coming of age.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
11LE — Light — EmotionalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
1/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
4/10Good conversation starter with themes worth exploring together.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9780007465958
- Pages
- 256
- Publisher
- HarperCollins Children's Books
- Published
- 2012
- Type
- Fiction