Young, Black, and determined

Patricia McKissack

Cover of Young, Black, and determined

Young, Black, and determined

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

A Biography of Lorraine Hansberry

by Patricia McKissack

Reading Level 9 Mild (Lvl 2) Ages 13+ Sweet Spot

The text is written at a 9th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for teens (ages 13+), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.

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About This Book

Explore the inspiring journey of a trailblazing African American playwright whose powerful voice and determination reshaped American theater. From her early years to her groundbreaking achievements, this story celebrates courage and creativity in the face of adversity. Perfect for young readers eager to discover a remarkable figure in civil rights and the arts.

Themes

BiographyAfrican American HistoryCivil RightsComing of AgeSocial JusticeDrama

Quick Assessment

This is a Level 9 book with mild content intensity. It's a Sweet Spot read — challenging text with gentle themes, ideal for advanced or 2e readers. Content themes include racial discrimination. Written for readers ages 13+.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 2 — Mild
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

Light conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.

Content Flags

Racial Discrimination
Data confidence: standard

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

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

3/10

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
8
Emotional Weight
4
Narrative Pace
5
Theme Richness
7
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
8

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Details

Book Length

152 pages
33,909 words
3h 46m read-aloud
ISBN
0823413004
Pages
152
Publisher
Holiday House
Published
1998
Type
Nonfiction
Word Count
33,909
Read-Aloud
~3h 46m
Text Density
Standard

Genres

Subjects

Hansberry, Lorraine, 1930-1965Dramatists, American20th CenturyAfrican American Women Civil Rights WorkersAfrican American DramatistsAfrican AmericansWomen