What reading level is The Burning City?

The Burning City by Ariel Dorfman is at a Level 5 reading level. Recommended for Middle Grades readers (Ages 9-12).

What age is The Burning City appropriate for?

The Burning City is recommended for Ages 9-12. Content intensity: "Mild" (2/5). Content flags: Mild Peril, Fear & Anxiety, Romantic Content.

Does The Burning City have any content warnings?

The Burning City has a content intensity rating of "Mild" (2/5). Content flags include: Mild Peril, Fear & Anxiety, Romantic Content. On HootRated, every book is rated for emotional, physical, and social content themes to help parents make informed choices.

The Burning City

Ariel Dorfman

The Burning City

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Ariel Dorfman

Reading Level 5 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

What if delivering bad news was your special superpower? Imagine racing through the buzzing streets of New York City on your bike, telling stories that change lives. But when the summer brings unexpected friendships and a surprising love, everything you thought you knew is turned upside down.

Themes

Friendship Coming of Age Family Adventure Romance Multicultural

Quick Assessment

Set in New York City during the summer of 2001, this middle-grade novel follows Heller, a young messenger who delivers news in a unique, personal way. The story explores themes of friendship, diversity, and young love, with action and emotional growth appropriate for ages 9-12. Parents should note the book contains some mild tension related to the nature of the messages delivered.