The Key Is Lost

Ida Vos

Cover of The Key Is Lost

The Key Is Lost

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Ida Vos

Illustrated by Terese Edelstein

Reading Level 6 Moderate (Lvl 3) Ages 9-12 Matched

The text is written at a 6th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content has moderate intensity with some emotionally heavy themes.

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About This Book

Eva is no ordinary twelve-year-old—she's a brave girl who must become a master of disguise to keep her family safe during one of history's darkest times. As she changes her name and hides from danger, every moment counts. What secrets will she uncover, and how far will she go to protect those she loves?

Themes

MulticulturalWorld History: Second World WarHolocaustFamily - SiblingsHistorical Fiction

Quick Assessment

Set during the German occupation of Holland in World War II, this historical fiction follows twelve-year-old Eva and her family as they use false identities to evade Nazi persecution. Suitable for ages 9-12, the story sensitively explores themes of courage, family bonds, and the impact of the Holocaust. Parents should be aware of the historical context involving war, persecution, and hiding from danger.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 3 — Moderate
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

Real stakes and emotional weight. May include sustained danger, loss, or bullying.

Content Flags

Fear & Anxiety Historical War & Conflict Family Separation
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

1/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

3/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
5
Emotional Weight
6
Theme Richness
8
World Scope
5
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

272 pages
ISBN
9780688162832
Pages
272
Publisher
HarperCollins
Published
May 2, 2000
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Fiction Dealing With MulticulturalismWorld History: Second World WarHolocaust, JewishFamilySiblingsHistoricalIntermediateEuropeJewsHolocaustNetherlandsWorld War, 1939-1945RescueHomeJewish Children in the HolocaustEnfants Juifs Pendant L'HolocausteRomans, Nouvelles, Etc. Pour La JeunesseJeugdboeken ; VerhalenTweede Wereldoorlog

Places

NetherlandsPays-Bas