Star in the Storm

Joan Hiatt Harlow

Cover of Star in the Storm

Star in the Storm

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Joan Hiatt Harlow

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

What if all dogs except sheepherders were banned in your village? Maggie hides her loyal Newfoundland, Sirius, in secret. But when a fierce storm wrecks a ship full of people, can Sirius risk everything to become a hero and save the day?

Themes

Quick Assessment

Set in a coastal Canadian village, this middle-grade novel follows Maggie and her Newfoundland dog, Sirius, as they navigate a law banning non-sheepherding dogs. When a shipwreck occurs during a violent storm, Maggie must decide whether to reveal Sirius to help rescue passengers, blending themes of courage and loyalty. Suitable for ages 9-12, it offers a mix of adventure and heartwarming moments without intense content.

For Parents

Content Intensity

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

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

2/10

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
5
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

160 pages
ISBN
9781442444188
Pages
160
Publisher
Simon and Schuster
Published
2013
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

DogsCanadaNewfoundland and LabradorNewfoundland Dog

Places

CanadaNewfoundland and Labrador