The dangerous art of blending in

Angelo Surmelis

Cover of The dangerous art of blending in

The dangerous art of blending in

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Angelo Surmelis

Reading Level 7 12IE Ages 13+ Matched

The text is written at a 7th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for teens (ages 13+), and the content is intense and may include graphic or distressing scenes.

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About This Book

Here’s a secret: Evan’s world feels like a painting stuck in shadows, where silence hides his deepest pain. But then, a friendship sparks something unexpected—something that could change everything. And that’s only the beginning.

Quick Assessment

This coming-of-age novel explores the emotional and physical challenges faced by a 17-year-old boy navigating family expectations, identity, and abuse. It sensitively portrays LGBTQ themes and the impact of domestic abuse while offering an ultimately hopeful message. Recommended for mature teens due to its depiction of emotional and physical abuse.

For Parents

Content Intensity

12IE — Intense — Emotional
Emotional
Intense
Physical
Moderate
Social
Moderate
Thematic
Moderate

Heavy themes explored in depth. War, death, abuse addressed directly.

Content Flags

Physical & Emotional Abuse LGBTQ Themes
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

1/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

3/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
6
Emotional Weight
8
Theme Richness
10
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

336 pages
ISBN
9780062659002
Pages
336
Publisher
Balzer + Bray
Published
2018
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Young Adult FictionRomanceLgbtqSocial ThemesPhysical & Emotional AbuseEmigration & ImmigrationFriendship