The secret of the lizard people
Michael Jan Friedman
The secret of the lizard people
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Michael Jan Friedman
The text is written at a 4th 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
Data is no ordinary android—he's about to face his toughest challenge yet on a daring rescue mission. When things go wrong, only his unique skills can save the day. But what happens if even Data can't control the danger?
Quick Assessment
This middle-grade science fiction adventure features Data, the android from Star Trek: The Next Generation, as he embarks on a rescue mission that quickly becomes perilous. Suitable for ages 9 to 12, the story emphasizes problem-solving, bravery, and teamwork within a familiar sci-fi universe. Parents should note the moderate tension typical of rescue scenarios but no graphic content.
Why we rated The secret of the lizard people 9LP
The secret of the lizard people is written at a Level 4-5 reading level across 113 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 5.5 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, The secret of the lizard people works for readers up to grade 6.5.
We rate The secret of the lizard people as 9LP ("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.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the mild intensity score.
Thematically, The secret of the lizard people explores science & nature, adventure, friendship, and fantasy world-building — 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.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about science & nature, adventure, friendship.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
9LP — Light — PhysicalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
2/10A 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
- 9780671501099
- Pages
- 113
- Publisher
- Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books
- Published
- 1995
- Type
- Fiction