The Runaway King (The Ascendance Trilogy, Book 2): Book 2 of the Ascendance Trilogy

Jennifer A. Nielsen

Cover of The Runaway King (The Ascendance Trilogy, Book 2): Book 2 of the Ascendance Trilogy

The Runaway King (The Ascendance Trilogy, Book 2): Book 2 of the Ascendance Trilogy

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Reading Level 7 Mild (Lvl 2) Ages 9-12 Balanced Read

The text is written at a 7th 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

What if you become king but suddenly everyone around you seems like a stranger? Imagine facing danger from all sides — an assassination attempt and an invasion looming — while even your own future queen might not be on your side. How can you survive when the palace feels more like a trap than a home?

Themes

Action & AdventureFamilyRoyaltyFriendshipTrust

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade fantasy follows King Jaron as he navigates political intrigue, threats of war, and complex relationships within his kingdom. Suitable for ages 9-12, it explores themes of loyalty, trust, and leadership with some mild peril and suspense but no graphic content. Parents should note the story includes tension around assassination attempts and political conflict.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 2 — Mild
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

Light conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.

Content Flags

Mild Peril
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

1/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

2/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
6
Emotional Weight
4
Theme Richness
6
World Scope
5
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

352 pages
ISBN
9780545284165
Pages
352
Publisher
Scholastic Paperbacks
Published
Jan 28, 2014
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Action & AdventureFamilyOrphans & Foster HomesRoyaltyFantasy & MagicGoodKingsQueensRulersEtcPrincessesCourts and CourtiersConspiracies

People

people

Places

places