Reviewed by HootRated editorial · Last updated
The time machine
H. G. Wells
The time machine
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by H. G. Wells
Illustrated by Jose Luis Alfonso
The text is written at a 3rd grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for teens (ages 13+), and the content has moderate intensity with some emotionally heavy themes.
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About This Book
What if you could travel far into the future where humans have changed in unexpected ways? Imagine discovering peaceful people living alongside mysterious, dangerous creatures. How will you survive and uncover the secrets of this strange new world?
Themes
Quick Assessment
This graphic novel adaptation of H.G. Wells' classic story follows a scientist who travels through time to a distant future where he encounters both gentle humans and threatening creatures. Suitable for teens aged 13-18, it introduces complex themes of adventure and the consequences of scientific exploration. The story contains mild fantasy violence and moments of suspense appropriate for young adult readers.
Why we rated The time machine 8MP
The time machine is written at a Level 3 reading level across 63 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 4.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, The time machine works for readers up to grade 5.0.
We rate The time machine as 8MP ("Moderate — Physical") because the content sits in the "Moderate" range — moderate conflict that may involve loss, scary scenes, or interpersonal stakes. The strongest signals come from physical peril, thematic difficulty — these are the dimensions parents should evaluate against their reader's tolerance.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the moderate intensity score.
Thematically, The time machine explores adventure, science & nature, fantasy world-building, and graphic novels — these threads give the book room to mean different things to different readers.
Good fit for
- ✓ Children in the Ages 13+ range — the maturity and attention span match the story's pacing.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about adventure, science & nature, fantasy world-building.
- ✓ Curious kids who prefer real-world topics over made-up stories.
Maybe not for
- ! Readers who get easily upset by emotional or moderately dark scenes — the conflict here is real, not just background flavor.
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
8MP — Moderate — PhysicalReal stakes and emotional weight. May include sustained danger, loss, or bullying.
Was our "Moderate" 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
- 9781598898897
- Pages
- 63
- Publisher
- Capstone
- Published
- July 30, 2007
- Type
- Nonfiction