The doctor from Cordova
Herbert Le Porrier
The doctor from Cordova
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
A Biographical Novel about the Great Philosopher Maimonides
by Herbert Le Porrier
The text is written at a 6th 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 you could travel back to the time of knights and scholars to meet a doctor who changed the world? Imagine walking through ancient streets, learning secrets of medicine and wisdom from Maimonides himself. But can you help him face challenges that could change history forever?
Quick Assessment
This historical fiction novel introduces middle-grade readers to the life and times of Maimonides, a renowned physician and philosopher from the 12th century. Suitable for ages 9-12, it blends factual history with imaginative storytelling to engage young readers in learning about medieval medicine and culture. Parents should note that the book explores historical themes and may include some references to the challenges of medieval life.
Why we rated The doctor from Cordova 11LP
The doctor from Cordova is written at a Level 6 reading level across 280 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 7.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, The doctor from Cordova works for readers up to grade 8.0.
We rate The doctor from Cordova as 11LP ("Light — Physical") because the content sits in the "Mild" range — mild conflict — the kind a child encounters in normal play and sibling life. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly mild; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
Specific content flags noted by reviewers: Mild Peril.
Thematically, The doctor from Cordova explores historical, adventure, coming of age, science & nature, and family — these threads give the book room to mean different things to different readers.
Good fit for
- ✓ Children in the Ages 9-12 range — the maturity and attention span match the story's pacing.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Readers ready to talk through themes after they finish — there's enough substance for a meaningful conversation.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about historical, adventure, coming of age.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
11LP — Light — PhysicalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
2/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient 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
- 0385114729
- Pages
- 280
- Publisher
- Doubleday Books
- Published
- 1979
- Type
- Fiction