The first marathon: the legend of Pheidippides

Susan Reynolds

Cover of The first marathon: the legend of Pheidippides

The first marathon: the legend of Pheidippides

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Susan Reynolds

Reading Level 6 11LT Ages 9-12 Balanced Read

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 gentle with no concerning themes.

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About This Book

Have you ever wondered what it took to run the very first marathon? Picture ancient Greece, where a brave messenger named Pheidippides races through rugged lands after a great battle. Can he deliver his message in time, or will the journey be too long and tough?

Themes

HistoricalAdventureSports

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade historical fiction book tells the story of Pheidippides, the legendary runner who inspired the marathon race. Suitable for ages 9-12, it combines adventure and history to engage young readers with an important Greek legend. The narrative encourages perseverance and introduces ancient cultural history without intense content.

For Parents

Content Intensity

11LT — Light — Thematic
Emotional
Clear
Physical
Clear
Social
Clear
Thematic
Light ←

No conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.

Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

3/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

1/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
5
Emotional Weight
2
Theme Richness
3
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

228 pages
ISBN
9780807508671
Pages
228
Publisher
Albert Whitman & Company
Published
2006
Type
Nonfiction

Genres

Biography & Autobiography

Subjects

Pheidippides, Fl. 490 B.CMarathon, Battle Of, Greece, 490 B.cMarathon RunningGreece

People

Pheidippides (fl. 490 B.C)