The extincts
Veronica Cossanteli
The extincts
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Veronica Cossanteli
Illustrated by Muradov, Roman, illustrator
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
The crunch of leaves underfoot mixes with the soft hum of strange creatures hidden in the shadows. At Wormestall Farm, George discovers animals thought to be extinct or only found in legends, their fur shimmering with magic. But when a sneaky taxidermist sneaks closer, George must protect his new friends and face an unforgettable adventure.
Themes
Quick Assessment
This middle-grade novel follows George, a boy who takes a job at a mysterious farm where mythological and extinct animals still roam. The story blends fantasy and adventure with themes of friendship and courage, suitable for readers aged 9-12. Parents should note mild peril involving a villainous taxidermist, but the tone remains appropriate for middle-grade audiences.
Why we rated The extincts 11LE
The extincts is written at a Level 6 reading level across 230 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 7.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, The extincts works for readers up to grade 8.0.
We rate The extincts as 11LE ("Light — Emotional") 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.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the mild intensity score.
Thematically, The extincts explores adventure, fantasy world-building, friendship, mythological animals, and extinct animals — 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.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about adventure, fantasy world-building, friendship.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
11LE — Light — EmotionalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
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
1/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9781627794039
- Pages
- 230
- Publisher
- Macmillan
- Published
- 2016
- Type
- Fiction