The City of Ember

Jeanne DuPrau

Cover of The City of Ember

The City of Ember

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

Book of Ember #1

by Jeanne DuPrau

The City of Ember · Book 1

Reading Level 5 Moderate (Lvl 3) Ages 9-12 Matched

The text is written at a 5th 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

In a city shrouded in darkness, two brave friends embark on a thrilling quest to uncover hidden secrets that could save their fading home. As the lights grow dimmer, Lina and Doon must solve ancient clues and lead their people through rising dangers before the city is lost to eternal night. This gripping tale blends mystery and adventure in a world where hope flickers like the last glowing lamp.

Quick Assessment

This is a Level 5 book with moderate content intensity. Content themes include mild peril, fear & anxiety. Written for readers ages 9-12.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 3 — Moderate
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

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

Content Flags

Mild Peril Fear & Anxiety
Data confidence: high

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

4/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

2/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
4
Emotional Weight
6
Theme Richness
6
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

270 pages
ISBN
9780375822742
Pages
270
Publisher
Yearling
Published
2003
Type
Fiction
Lexile
680L

Genres

Subjects

FantasyFantasy FictionOccupationsScience FictionGood and EvilMessengersCity PlanningRomans, Nouvelles, Etc. Pour La JeunesseScience-fictionConstructions SouterrainesLibertéComics & Graphic Novels, Fantasy, General