The stone that never came down.
John Brunner
The stone that never came down.
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by John Brunner
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 mild with minimal sensitive material.
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About This Book
This story proves that one small choice can change everything. When a teacher tries a mysterious new drug, his world flips upside down in ways no one expects. What happens next could affect more than just him—it could change the future.
Quick Assessment
This middle-grade science fiction novel explores the unexpected consequences of experimenting with unknown substances. Suitable for ages 9-12, it involves themes of science and personal responsibility without graphic content. Parents should note that the story includes drug use in a fictional context but handles it thoughtfully.
Why we rated The stone that never came down. 11LP
The stone that never came down. is written at a Level 6 reading level across 206 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 7.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, The stone that never came down. works for readers up to grade 8.0.
We rate The stone that never came down. as 11LP ("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.
Specific content flags noted by reviewers: Mild Peril.
Thematically, The stone that never came down. explores science & nature, adventure, and coming of age — 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, coming of age.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
11LP — Light — PhysicalLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
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
2/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 0385037163
- Pages
- 206
- Publisher
- Doubleday
- Published
- 1973
- Type
- Fiction