The real thief.
William Steig
The real thief.
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by William Steig
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
Gawain the goose faces loneliness and betrayal when his friends turn away after he’s wrongly blamed for stealing from the king. As the true culprit struggles with guilt, Gawain must find a way to clear his name and restore trust. This tale explores the power of friendship and the quest for justice.
Themes
Quick Assessment
This is a Level 6-7 book with mild content intensity. Content themes include mild peril, emotional: loneliness, emotional: friendship. Written for readers ages 9-12.
For Parents
Content Intensity
Level 2 — MildLight 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
- 0374362173
- Pages
- 58
- Publisher
- Farrar, Straus & Giroux (BYR)
- Published
- 1973
- Type
- Fiction
- Word Count
- 8,944
- Read-Aloud
- ~1h 0m
- Text Density
- Standard