The bird of time
Jane Yolen
The bird of time
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Jane Yolen
The text is written at a 1st grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for younger children (ages 5–8), and the content is gentle with no concerning themes.
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About This Book
The soft flutter of wings whispers secrets only the son of Honest Hans can hear. Through the rustling leaves and sweet scent of the forest, a magical story unfolds where courage meets the chirping birds. Saving the king’s daughter from a wicked giant is just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.
Themes
Quick Assessment
This early reader fairy tale follows the son of Honest Hans, who, gifted with the ability to understand birds, embarks on a brave quest to rescue a princess from a giant. Suitable for children ages 5-8, it offers simple language and enchanting storytelling that supports early literacy. The story contains gentle themes of courage and kindness without any intense content.
Why we rated The bird of time 6C
The bird of time is written at a Level 1-2 reading level across 32 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 2.5 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, The bird of time works for readers up to grade 3.5.
We rate The bird of time as 6C ("Clear") because the content sits in the "Gentle" range — no conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly gentle; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the gentle intensity score.
Thematically, The bird of time explores fairy tales, adventure, family, and friendship — these threads give the book room to mean different things to different readers.
Good fit for
- ✓ Children in the Ages 5-8 range — the maturity and attention span match the story's pacing.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about fairy tales, adventure, family.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
6C — ClearNo conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.
Was our "Gentle" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
2/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
1/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 0690144253
- Pages
- 32
- Publisher
- Crowell
- Published
- 1971
- Type
- Fiction