The paradox planet
Steven G. Spruill
The paradox planet
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
a Kane and Pendrake novel
by Steven G. Spruill
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 sharp scent of burning metal fills the air as Elias Kane steps onto the mysterious surface of Cassiodorus. Strange echoes bounce off alien structures, and every shadow seems to hide a secret. With the fate of Earth hanging by a thread, Kane must unravel a rebellion before it’s too late.
Quick Assessment
This middle-grade science fiction novel follows Elias Kane, a former Space Navy member turned private eye, on a high-stakes mission to a distant planet where inspectors have vanished. The story explores themes of rebellion and danger, suitable for readers aged 9-12, with mild peril and suspense but no graphic content.
Why we rated The paradox planet 11LP
The paradox planet is written at a Level 6 reading level across 229 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 7.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, The paradox planet works for readers up to grade 8.0.
We rate The paradox planet as 11LP ("Light — Physical") 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.
Specific content flags noted by reviewers: Mild Peril.
Thematically, The paradox planet explores science fiction, adventure, and mystery — 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.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about science fiction, adventure, mystery.
Maybe not for
- ! Readers looking for something heavier — this is a gentle, low-stakes story by design.
For Parents
Content Intensity
11LP — Light — PhysicalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
3/10A 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
- 055327922X
- Pages
- 229
- Publisher
- Spectra
- Published
- 1989
- Type
- Fiction