The Secret Soldier

Ann McGovern

Cover of The Secret Soldier

The Secret Soldier

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

The Story of Deborah Sampson

by Ann McGovern

Illustrated by Harold Goodwin

Reading Level 3 8LE Ages 5-8 Matched

The text is written at a 3rd grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for younger children (ages 5–8), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.

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About This Book

Have you ever wondered what it would take to keep a big secret? Imagine dressing like a soldier and joining the army just to have the adventure of a lifetime. But can Deborah Sampson keep her true identity hidden when danger is all around?

Quick Assessment

This historical fiction book tells the true story of Deborah Sampson, a courageous woman who disguised herself as a man to serve as a soldier during the American Revolutionary War. Suitable for early readers aged 5-8, it introduces young children to themes of bravery, identity, and history with age-appropriate language and content. Parents should know it contains mild peril related to wartime experiences but handles it gently for this age group.

For Parents

Content Intensity

8LE — Light — Emotional
Emotional
Light
Physical
Light
Social
Clear
Thematic
Clear

Light conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.

Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

2/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

4/10

Good conversation starter with themes worth exploring together.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
2
Emotional Weight
4
Theme Richness
4
World Scope
5
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

64 pages
ISBN
9780590430524
Pages
64
Publisher
Scholastic Paperbacks
Published
June 1, 1990
Type
Nonfiction

Genres

Subjects

SoldiersGannett, Deborah Sampson,Biography & Autobiography1760-1827Story of Deborah SampsonAdventure StoriesAmerican Revolutionfastfst01351668United States, History, Revolution, 1775-1783, BiographyUnited StatesRevolution1775-1783Women, United States, Biography

People

Deborah Sampson Gannett (1760-1827)

Places

United States