The secret crush

Tina Wells

Cover of The secret crush

The secret crush

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Tina Wells

Reading Level 6 11C Ages 9-12 Balanced Read

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 gentle with no concerning themes.

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About This Book

Mackenzie Blue is about to become the star of the coolest rock-and-roll musical at school—and if she plays her cards right, she might just get Landon, the cutest boy in class, to notice her! But with so many things to juggle—friends, schoolwork, and the big show—can she keep it all together? The spotlight is on, but the real question is: what will steal the show?

Themes

FriendshipJuvenile FictionSocial Themes

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade fiction follows Mackenzie Blue as she navigates a school musical, a crush, and the challenges of balancing friendships and academics. Suitable for ages 9-12, the story explores themes of friendship, self-confidence, and managing priorities in a relatable, lighthearted way. There is no content of concern, making it a positive read for young readers.

For Parents

Content Intensity

11C — Clear
Emotional
Clear
Physical
Clear
Social
Clear
Thematic
Clear

No conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.

Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

1/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

1/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
5
Emotional Weight
2
Theme Richness
3
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

240 pages
ISBN
9780061583117
Pages
240
Publisher
HarperCollins
Published
2010
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Social ThemesFriendshipSchool StoriesDiariesMiddle SchoolsInterpersonal Relations in AdolescenceFriendship in AdolescenceInterpersonal RelationsMusicalsSchoolsMusic