The Hockey Tree
David Ward
The Hockey Tree
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by David Ward
The text is written at a 2nd grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for younger children (ages 5–8), and the content is gentle with no concerning themes.
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About This Book
Hockey isn’t just a game—it’s a way to turn any problem into an adventure! When Holly’s puck falls through a secret hole in the ice, their dad shows them a cool trick from hockey lovers long ago. It’s not just about winning; it’s about discovering the magic of winter play and family fun.
Quick Assessment
This charming early reader story follows siblings Owen and Holly as they enjoy a day playing hockey on a frozen lake with their father. When a puck falls through an ice-fishing hole, their dad teaches them a traditional hockey technique, blending simple winter fun with a celebration of the outdoors. Suitable for ages 5-8, this book highlights family bonding, Canadian culture, and the joy of sports without any intense content.
Why we rated The Hockey Tree 7C
The Hockey Tree is written at a Level 2 reading level across 36 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 3.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, The Hockey Tree works for readers up to grade 4.0.
We rate The Hockey Tree as 7C ("Clear") because the content sits in the "Gentle" range — no conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly gentle; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the gentle intensity score.
Thematically, The Hockey Tree explores family, sports & recreation, nature, and adventure — these threads give the book room to mean different things to different readers.
Good fit for
- ✓ Children in the Ages 5-8 range — the maturity and attention span match the story's pacing.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about family, sports & recreation, nature.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
7C — ClearNo conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.
Was our "Gentle" 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
- 9780545990318
- Pages
- 36
- Publisher
- Scholastic Canada
- Published
- Jul 18, 2006
- Type
- Fiction