The hypnotists
Gordon Korman
The hypnotists
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Gordon Korman
The text is written at a 3rd grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for younger children (ages 5–8), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.
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About This Book
Jackson Opus stands frozen as the room fills with whispers only he can hear, the power of hypnotism swirling through the air. He just found out his family has a secret legacy—one that could change everything. But when danger closes in, can Jackson control his newfound abilities before it's too late?
Themes
Quick Assessment
This early reader fiction follows Jackson Opus, a boy discovering his extraordinary hypnotic heritage and attending a secretive institute to hone his skills. Suitable for ages 5-8, the story introduces themes of supernatural powers and conspiracies in an age-appropriate way, with mild suspense but no graphic content. Parents should note it encourages imagination and problem-solving through fantastical elements.
Why we rated The hypnotists 8LE
The hypnotists is written at a Level 3 reading level across 54 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 4.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, The hypnotists works for readers up to grade 5.0.
We rate The hypnotists as 8LE ("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 hypnotists explores fantasy world-building, adventure, supernatural, and friendship — 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 fantasy world-building, adventure, supernatural.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
8LE — 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
- 9780545600262
- Pages
- 54
- Publisher
- Scholastic Inc.
- Published
- 2013
- Type
- Fiction