Speed
Harlan Wade
Speed
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Harlan Wade
The text is written at a 2nd grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for younger children (ages 5–8), and the content is gentle with no concerning themes.
We may earn a commission from these links. Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores with every purchase.
About This Book
Speed can be faster than you think! From zooming cars to sprinting animals, discover just how speedy the world around you really is. Knowing about speed helps us understand everything moving around us every day.
Themes
Quick Assessment
This early reader introduces the concept of speed through simple comparisons of everyday fast-moving objects, making it accessible for children aged 5 to 8. The book supports foundational science learning with clear, straightforward language suitable for Grade 2 reading levels. It encourages curiosity about motion and measurement without any challenging content.
Why we rated Speed 7C
Speed is written at a Level 2 reading level across 32 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 3.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Speed works for readers up to grade 4.0.
We rate Speed as 7C ("Clear") because the content sits in the "Gentle" range — no conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly gentle; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the gentle intensity score.
Thematically, Speed weaves together science & nature and early learning.
Good fit for
- ✓ Children in the Ages 5-8 range — the maturity and attention span match the story's pacing.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about science & nature, early learning.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
7C — ClearNo conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.
Was our "Gentle" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
1/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
1/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
Similar Books
Based on content and theme analysis
Science of Speed
Wendy H. Lanier
Science of Speed
Wendy H. Lanier
Super Speed
Blake A. Hoena
Super Speed
Blake A. Hoena
The Usborne Book of Speed
Philip Chapman
The Usborne Book of Speed
Philip Chapman
Fast - Slow
Sharon Gordon
Fast - Slow
Sharon Gordon
Built for speed
Lisa M. Herrington
Built for speed
Lisa M. Herrington
Speed Machines
Paul Harrison
Speed Machines
Paul Harrison
Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 0817215409
- Pages
- 32
- Publisher
- Raintree Childrens Books
- Published
- 1979
- Type
- Fiction