The Tombs of Atuan (The Earthsea Cycle, Book 2)

Ursula K. Le Guin

Cover of The Tombs of Atuan (The Earthsea Cycle, Book 2)

The Tombs of Atuan (The Earthsea Cycle, Book 2)

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Ursula K. Le Guin

Reading Level 4-5 Moderate (Lvl 3) Ages 13+ Matched

The text is written at a 4th 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 were the guardian of ancient secrets in dark, endless tunnels beneath the earth? Imagine your quiet world disturbed by a mysterious stranger searching for a hidden treasure that could change everything. Now, you must decide if you protect the past or embrace a new future.

Quick Assessment

This fantasy novel follows Arha, a young high priestess living in isolation beneath the tombs of Atuan, whose life changes when a thief arrives seeking a powerful treasure. Suitable for teens ages 13 to 18, the story explores themes of identity, power, and choice within a richly imagined world. Parents should note its mature fantasy elements and moments of 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 Identity & Self-Discovery Fantasy Violence
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

3/10

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
4
Emotional Weight
6
Theme Richness
7
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

192 pages
ISBN
9780689845352
Pages
192
Publisher
Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books
Published
September 1, 2001
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

Science Fiction, Fantasy, & MagicFairy Tales & FolkloreFantasyMagicClassicsFantasy FictionNovela Fantástica EstadounidenseMagic in FictionWizardsAmerican Fantasy FictionWizards in FictionNewbery HonorLarge Type BooksWomen PriestsThievesTombsAdventure StoriesYoung Adult FictionFantastic FictionScience Fiction, Fantasy, MagicGedHiding PlacesEarthsea