Wilderness
Robert B. Parker
Wilderness
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
A Novel
by Robert B. Parker
The text is written at a 6th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content has moderate intensity with some emotionally heavy themes.
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About This Book
This story proves that even in the wildest places, danger can sneak up when you least expect it. With sharp words and tense moments, every page keeps your heart pounding. It matters because it shows how courage can shine brightest when trouble is near.
Quick Assessment
Wilderness is a middle-grade novel set in Maine that combines suspense and action with sharp dialogue. Suitable for ages 9-12, it portrays themes of danger and survival in a way that engages readers without explicit content. Parents should note the presence of some violence and tense situations, but nothing overly graphic.
Why we rated Wilderness 11MP
Wilderness is written at a Level 6 reading level across 243 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 7.0 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, Wilderness works for readers up to grade 8.0.
We rate Wilderness as 11MP ("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 — 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, Wilderness explores adventure, suspense, and family — 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 adventure, suspense, family.
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
11MP — 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
3/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 0440093287
- Pages
- 243
- Publisher
- Delacorte Press
- Published
- 1979
- Type
- Fiction