12,119 books rated

Know before they read.

HootRated matches your child's reading level with content intensity — so you can find the right book at the right time. No guesswork, no surprises.

Search Books How We Rate

We describe, we don't prescribe. Learn our methodology

The Two-Axis Model

Reading Level

Cognitive demand — Grade K through 12

Content Intensity

Emotional demand — Gentle to Very Intense

No other tool rates on both axes. We help advanced readers find challenging books with age-appropriate content — so a 7-year-old reading at a 5th-grade level doesn't have to encounter 5th-grade themes.

Browse by Grade Level

Find books matched to your child's reading ability. Each grade includes books rated for content intensity.

K 193 books 1 1,004 books 2 1,720 books 3 2,503 books 4 2,675 books 5 1,950 books 6 921 books 7 637 books 8 315 books 9 136 books 10 48 books 11 12 books 12 4 books 13 1 books

Curated Book Lists

Hand-crafted collections to help you find the perfect book faster.

1001 Children's Books

Essential reads from the bestselling guide. Classics, picture books, and YA.

Gifted Kid Sweet Spot

Advanced reading level, gentle content. Perfect for kids who read above their age.

Gentle Books for All Ages

No conflict beyond everyday experiences. Safe for the most sensitive readers.

Best Nonfiction for Kids

Top nonfiction across all grade levels. Science, history, biography, and more.

View all book lists →

How HootRated Works

Four steps to finding the perfect book for your child.

Step 1

Search or Browse

Find books by title, grade level, genre, or content intensity. Use our curated lists or AI-powered search.

Step 2

Check the Ratings

Every book is rated on two axes: Reading Level (grade equivalent) and Content Intensity (Gentle to Very Intense).

Step 3

Read the Details

See specific content themes, community warnings, and a description — so you know exactly what your child will encounter.

Step 4

Decide with Confidence

You make the call. We provide the data — you decide what's right for your family.

PODCAST

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The King They Don't Tell You About

The untold side of MLK — the real man behind the legend.

The Great Meme Reset

How memes shape the way kids think — and why it matters.

The True Meaning of Christmas

Beyond the gifts and decorations — what the holiday really means.

Musashi's Cheat Codes

Life lessons from history's greatest samurai, for kids.

Turkey, Truth, and the Story

Unpacking the myths and truths behind Thanksgiving.

Want a podcast made just for your kid?

HootPODS creates personalized episodes based on your child's interests and reading level.

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