The birthday murder
Lange Lewis
The birthday murder
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Lange Lewis
The text is written at a 6th 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.
We may earn a commission from these links. Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores with every purchase.
About This Book
Here's a secret: a writer's birthday celebration turns into a puzzling mystery when her husband is found poisoned—just like in one of her books. Everyone thinks she did it, but the truth hides deeper than anyone expects. And that's only the beginning.
Quick Assessment
Set during Hollywood's Golden Age, this middle-grade mystery follows Victoria, a writer who becomes the prime suspect in her husband's poisoning on her birthday. The story explores themes of suspicion, investigation, and uncovering hidden truths, making it suitable for readers aged 9-12 who enjoy detective stories with moderate suspense.
For Parents
Content Intensity
11ME — Moderate — EmotionalReal stakes and emotional weight. May include sustained danger, loss, or bullying.
Was our "Moderate" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
2/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
3/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
Similar Books
Based on content and theme analysis
The word is murder
Anthony Horowitz
The word is murder
Anthony Horowitz
Murder games
Lionel Davidson
Murder games
Lionel Davidson
Birthday Present Mystery (Young Cousins Mysteries)
Elspeth Campbell Murphy
Birthday Present Mystery (Young Cousins Mysteries)
Elspeth Campbell Murphy
Murder on the line
Francine Pascal
Murder on the line
Francine Pascal
Cyanide with compliments.
Elizabeth Lemarchand
Cyanide with compliments.
Elizabeth Lemarchand
Murder in waiting
Mignon Good Eberhart
Murder in waiting
Mignon Good Eberhart
Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 0824023811
- Pages
- 206
- Publisher
- Garland Pub.
- Published
- 1976
- Type
- Fiction