Star rise

Kathryn Lasky

Cover of Star rise

Star rise

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Kathryn Lasky

Horses of the Dawn

Reading Level 5-6 Mild (Lvl 2) Ages 9-12 Balanced Read

The text is written at a 5th 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

Estrella, a young filly, guides her herd on a challenging journey toward fresh pastures, while Hold On, a stallion blinded by fire, forms an unexpected bond with Tijo, a boy who understands horses like no other. Together, they face a crucial moment when Estrella must choose whether to welcome Tijo into their world or keep him at a distance. This tale explores trust, connection, and the strength found in unusual friendships.

Themes

HorsesLeadershipHuman-animal relationshipsAdventureFriendship

Quick Assessment

This is a Level 5-6 book with mild content intensity. Content themes include mild peril, emotional: fear & anxiety. Written for readers ages 9-12.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 2 — Mild
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

Light conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.

Content Flags

Mild Peril Emotional: Fear & Anxiety
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

5/10

Engaging read with solid pacing and interesting themes.

Discussion Potential

1/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
4
Emotional Weight
4
Narrative Pace
5
Theme Richness
7
World Scope
3
Data Confidence
8

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Details

Book Length

190 pages
39,875 words
4h 26m read-aloud
ISBN
9780545397179
Pages
190
Publisher
Scholastic Press
Published
2015
Type
Fiction
Word Count
39,875
Read-Aloud
~4h 26m
Text Density
Standard

Genres

Subjects

HorsesLeadershipHuman-animal RelationshipsHuman-animal CommunicationCommunicationStarsChevauxRomans, Nouvelles, Etc. Pour La JeunesseCommunication Avec Les AnimauxRelations Homme-animalHistoireAction & AdventureAnimalsFantasy & MagicHuman-animal RelationshipAdventure and Adventurers

Places

North America