Reading Age Disclaimer

ShelfAnswers lists the reading age, grade level or skill level shown on each book listing. This page explains where those numbers come from, what they mean and what they do not.

What a reading age is

A reading age, such as “8 to 12 years”, or a grade level, such as “grade 3 to 7”, describes the reading level and audience a book is aimed at. Grade levels usually come from the publisher. On Amazon, the reading age is often marked “from customers”, which means it reflects what buyers report rather than a publisher statement. We say which one we are quoting.

What a reading age is not

• It is not a content rating. A book in the right age band may still deal with loss, violence, romance or other themes a particular family wants to discuss first.
• It is not a judgment about a particular child. Children read above and below their age band for many good reasons.
• It is not advice from a teacher, librarian or reading specialist.

How to use our lists

Read the publisher description and a sample before buying for a younger or sensitive reader. Where the book description mentions mature themes, we note it in the pick. For reading difficulties or learning needs, talk with the child’s teacher, school librarian or a reading specialist.

Test prep and study books

Exams change format and content. A test prep book is accurate for the exam as described when it was printed. Always check the official exam website for current content and rules, and buy the edition your course or teacher names when one is named.

No homework or exam answers

We do not publish answers to textbook, workbook or exam questions. Where an answer key is part of a curriculum, we point to the book the publisher sells.