Stone cold

Pete Hautman

Cover of Stone cold

Stone cold

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Pete Hautman

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

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

The sharp click of poker chips echoes around the smoky room, mixing with the rustle of cards and whispered bets. Denn’s heart races as he dives deeper into the world of high-stakes poker, where every hand could change everything. But can he hold on to who he is before the game takes over his life?

Themes

GamblingCompulsive GamblersFriendshipFamily

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade novel follows sixteen-year-old Denn as he becomes consumed by high-stakes poker, leading to strained relationships with friends and family. The story explores themes of gambling and compulsive behavior in a way that’s suitable for readers aged 9-12, offering a thoughtful look at addiction and its impact. Parents should note the depiction of gambling but expect no graphic content.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 2 — Mild
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

Light conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.

Content Flags

Gambling Compulsive Behavior
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

1/10

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
5
Emotional Weight
4
Theme Richness
6
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

214 pages
ISBN
9780689833212
Pages
214
Publisher
Simon Pulse
Published
2000
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

GamblingPokerCompulsive GamblersObsessive-compulsive DisorderGames