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Michael French

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Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Michael French

Reading Level 4-5 9LE Ages 9-12 Balanced Read

The text is written at a 4th 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

The sharp scent of salty ocean air mixes with the hum of busy city streets as Garrett steps into a new life in Los Angeles. Every corner hides a secret, and every shadow whispers a mystery he can’t ignore. But what starts as an exciting adventure soon turns into a dangerous puzzle that challenges everything he thought he knew.

Themes

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade novel follows seventeen-year-old Garrett as he moves to Los Angeles to live with his estranged father after his mother's death. The story explores themes of family relationships and espionage, blending mystery with emotional growth. Suitable for ages 9-12, it contains mild suspense but no graphic content.

For Parents

Content Intensity

9LE — Light — Emotional
Emotional
Light
Physical
Light
Social
Clear
Thematic
Light

Light conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.

Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

3/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

2/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
4
Emotional Weight
4
Theme Richness
5
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

181 pages
ISBN
0553070215
Pages
181
Publisher
Delacorte Press Books for Young Readers
Published
1990
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Fathers and SonsSpies