The Columbia space shuttle disaster
Michael D. Cole
The Columbia space shuttle disaster
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
From First Liftoff to Tragic Final Flight
by Michael D. Cole
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.
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About This Book
Experience the excitement of Columbia's first launch as it soars into space to explore the unknown. Follow the shuttle's missions over the years and discover what happened during its final, tragic journey when it broke apart upon re-entry. This story honors the bravery of the crew and the quest to understand this heartbreaking event.
Quick Assessment
This is a Level 6-7 book with moderate content intensity. Content themes include loss & grief, physical danger. Written for readers ages 9-12.
For Parents
Content Intensity
Level 3 — ModerateReal stakes and emotional weight. May include sustained danger, loss, or bullying.
Content Flags
Was our "Moderate" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
8/10High engagement — fast-paced, fun, and hard to put down. Great for reluctant readers.
Discussion Potential
4/10Good conversation starter with themes worth exploring together.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 0766022951
- Pages
- 48
- Publisher
- Enslow Publishing
- Published
- 2003
- Type
- Nonfiction
- Word Count
- 6,029
- Read-Aloud
- ~40 min
- Text Density
- Light Text