The alchemist's secret

Scott Mariani

Cover of The alchemist's secret

The alchemist's secret

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Scott Mariani

Reading Level 8 12MP Ages 9-12 Balanced Read

The text is written at a 8th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content has moderate intensity with some emotionally heavy themes.

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About This Book

The sharp scent of old parchment fills the air as Ben flips through a dusty ancient manuscript. Each crackling page holds secrets of a magical elixir that could save a life — but dark forces are closing in. Can Ben and Dr. Roberta unlock the mystery before it’s too late?

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade thriller follows Ben Hope, a former elite soldier, on a dangerous mission to find an ancient manuscript rumored to hold the secret of the elixir of life. Alongside scientist Dr. Roberta Ryder, they face threats from historical enemies and secretive organizations while racing against time to save a child. Suitable for ages 9-12, the book includes themes of adventure, mystery, and mild peril, with some references to historical violence and secret societies.

For Parents

Content Intensity

12MP — Moderate — Physical
Emotional
Clear
Physical
Moderate
Social
Clear
Thematic
Clear

Real stakes and emotional weight. May include sustained danger, loss, or bullying.

Content Flags

Murder Mild Peril Historical Violence
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

3/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

4/10

Good conversation starter with themes worth exploring together.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
7
Emotional Weight
6
Theme Richness
9
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

486 pages
ISBN
9781847563408
Pages
486
Publisher
Avon Books
Published
2011
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

MurderElixir of LifeWomen ScientistsSoldiersManuscriptsTerminally Ill ChildrenFiction and Related ItemsThrillerSuspenseCrimeHistoricalThrillersVeteransAction & AdventureMystery & DetectiveInternational Mystery & CrimeSecrecyAdventure