A Seven-Letter Word
by Kim Slater
Macmillan Children's Books 2017
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.7 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- stuttering
- bullying
- family secrets
- resilience
- friendship
- self-acceptance
- grief
- finding your voice
About this book
Finlay McIntosh is bright and loves words, but his severe stutter makes speaking in class—and anywhere else—feel impossible, especially since his mum disappeared two years ago. Bullied at school and shut out at home, he discovers new ways to use his love of words to connect, compete, and be heard. As Finlay grows braver, he begins to piece together truths about himself and his family. A heartfelt, hopeful story for upper elementary and middle school readers who enjoy realistic fiction with humor, heart, and a touch of mystery.
Setting: contemporary United Kingdom, chiefly at school, home, and in Scrabble competitions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Seven-Letter Word right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for A Seven-Letter Word. The reading level is AR 4.7, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include stuttering, bullying, family secrets.
How long does it take to read A Seven-Letter Word?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, A Seven-Letter Word takes around 7.8h to finish. The book has 70,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does A Seven-Letter Word have an AR quiz?
Yes — A Seven-Letter Word has an AR quiz available, worth 9 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is A Seven-Letter Word?
A Seven-Letter Word has an AR reading level of 4.7, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.