Where We Live
Randy Cunningham
Where We Live
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Randy Cunningham
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
Have you ever wondered what it takes to stand up for the planet? Imagine meeting people who fight to protect the air, water, and land in cities and countryside alike. But what challenges do they face along the way?
Themes
Quick Assessment
Where We Live offers an insightful look into environmental activism by sharing real stories from activists across Appalachia and the Midwest. Suitable for ages 9-12, it explores important themes about the environment and community efforts while providing a thoughtful introduction to social activism. The book contains no graphic content but includes complex vocabulary and ideas appropriate for middle-grade readers.
Why we rated Where We Live 11LT
Where We Live is written at a Level 6 reading level across 232 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 7.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Where We Live works for readers up to grade 8.0.
We rate Where We Live as 11LT ("Light — Thematic") 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: Complex Vocabulary.
Thematically, Where We Live explores environmental activism, community, social justice, and nonfiction — 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 environmental activism, community, social justice.
- ✓ Curious kids who prefer real-world topics over made-up stories.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
11LT — Light — ThematicLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
1/10A 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
- 9780811425858
- Pages
- 232
- Publisher
- The Pilgrim Press
- Published
- June 1992
- Type
- Nonfiction