The Skripal files

Mark Urban

Cover of The Skripal files

The Skripal files

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

The Life and Near Death of a Russian Spy

by Mark Urban

Reading Level 7 Moderate (Lvl 3) 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 has moderate intensity with some emotionally heavy themes.

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About This Book

Sergei and his daughter Yulia sit quietly on a bench, but suddenly they start to feel strange—weak, dizzy, and unable to move. What mysterious poison could be making them so sick, and who would want to hurt them? As their world turns upside down, a shadowy battle between countries begins to unfold.

Themes

Politics and governmentBiographyIntelligence officersPoisoningCrimes against

Quick Assessment

This gripping middle-grade fiction explores the real-life story of Sergei Skripal, a former Russian spy poisoned with a deadly nerve agent in England. The book delves into themes of espionage, international politics, and government conflict, presenting complex ideas appropriate for readers aged 9-12 with guidance. It contains scenes of peril and political intrigue but avoids graphic violence, making it suitable for mature middle-grade readers interested in true stories with suspense.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 3 — Moderate
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

Real stakes and emotional weight. May include sustained danger, loss, or bullying.

Content Flags

Mild Peril Fear & Anxiety
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

1/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

3/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

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

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Details

Book Length

310 pages
ISBN
9781250207739
Pages
310
Publisher
Henry Holt and Company
Published
2018
Type
Nonfiction

Genres

Subjects

Politics and GovernmentIntelligence OfficersPoisoningCrimes AgainstSpiesPolitical Crimes and OffensesGreat Britain, Foreign Relations, Soviet UnionRussia, Foreign RelationsPolitical ScienceIntelligence & EspionageInternational RelationsPolitical Aspects

People

Sergeĭ Skripalʹ

Places

Russia (Federation)Great Britain