The Cat Who Went to Heaven

Elizabeth Jane Coatsworth

Cover of The Cat Who Went to Heaven

The Cat Who Went to Heaven

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Elizabeth Jane Coatsworth

Illustrated by Raoul Vitale

Reading Level 3 Gentle (Lvl 1) Ages 5-8 Balanced Read

The text is written at a 3rd 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

Have you ever wondered what magic a small, humble cat could bring? In a quiet Japanese village, a poor artist finds his life changed when a gentle cat arrives at his doorstep. What secret does this special visitor hold?

Themes

Animals - CatsClassicsPeople & Places - AsiaJuvenile Fiction

Quick Assessment

This classic children's book tells the story of a poor Japanese artist whose life is transformed by the arrival of a devoted little cat. Suitable for early readers ages 5-8, it gently explores themes of humility, devotion, and good fortune, set against a rich cultural backdrop. The story is free of conflict and presents positive messages about kindness and perseverance.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 1 — Gentle
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

No conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.

Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

1/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

1/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
2
Emotional Weight
2
Theme Richness
4
World Scope
3
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

96 pages
ISBN
9781416949732
Pages
96
Publisher
Simon and Schuster
Published
January 8, 2008
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

AnimalsCatsClassicsPeople & PlacesAsiaTalesBuddhismFolkloreArtistsNewbery Medal BooksNewberry Award WinnerNewbery MedalJapanFairy TalesAward:Newbery_awardLexile:1000Lexile_range:1001-1100Age:min:8Age:max:12Grade:min:3Grade:max:7

Places

Japan