Trouble

Gary D. Schmidt

Cover of Trouble

Trouble

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Gary D. Schmidt

Reading Level 5-6 Intense (Lvl 4) Ages 11+ Heads Up
A Junior Library Guild selection

The text is written at a 5th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for older middle graders (ages 11+), and the content is intense and may include graphic or distressing scenes.

We may earn a commission from these links. Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores with every purchase.

About This Book

At fourteen, Henry is determined to fulfill his late brother Franklin's final wish by trekking up Maine's Mount Katahdin alongside his loyal dog and best friend. Yet, an unexpected traveler joins their journey—the Cambodian refugee blamed for Franklin's death—uncovering hidden struggles and truths beneath the surface. Together, they face challenges that test their courage and understanding.

Quick Assessment

This is a Level 5-6 book with intense content intensity. Content themes include physical danger, realistic violence, bullying. Written for readers ages 11+.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 4 — Intense
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

Heavy themes explored in depth. War, death, abuse addressed directly.

Content Flags

Physical Danger Realistic Violence Bullying Substance Use Fear & Anxiety Emotional: Loss & Grief
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

2/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

5/10

Good conversation starter with themes worth exploring together.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
5
Emotional Weight
8
Narrative Pace
3
Theme Richness
10
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
8

Similar Books

Based on content and theme analysis

See all books like this →

Details

Book Length

304 pages
79,230 words
8h 48m read-aloud
ISBN
9780618927661
Pages
304
Publisher
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Published
April 21, 2008
Type
Fiction
Word Count
79,230
Read-Aloud
~8h 48m
Text Density
Dense

Genres

Subjects

Non-ClassifiableFamilyYoung Adult FictionDeathDogsTraffic Accidents