What is the Lexile level of hidden figures?

Unlocking the Reading Level of Hidden Figures: What You Need to Know

Hidden Figures… what a story, right? The film and book, both chronicling the lives of those brilliant Black women who were essentially the brains behind NASA’s early space missions, have resonated with so many. But if you’re thinking about sharing this incredible story with a younger reader, or using it in a classroom, you’ve probably wondered: just how difficult is it to read? That’s where Lexile levels come in, and they’re pretty handy.

So, let’s break down the reading levels of the different versions of Hidden Figures to help you pick the perfect fit.

The Original Hidden Figures Book:

Okay, so the full-fledged, original version of Margot Lee Shetterly’s Hidden Figures clocks in at a Lexile level of 1350L. Think advanced high schoolers here. It’s a meaty read, no doubt! The ATOS reading level is 9.7, which also points to a high school audience.

Hidden Figures: Young Readers’ Edition

Now, this is where things get interesting. To bring this amazing story to a broader audience, a Young Readers’ Edition was created, and it’s got a Lexile measure of 1120L. This puts it squarely in the upper elementary and middle school sweet spot. We’re talking grades 4-7 for interest level, according to Booksource. Makes sense, right? It also aligns with bestseller Lexile levels for grades 6 and 7. The ATOS level is 8.2.

Picture Book Edition

Don’t forget the picture book edition for even younger readers!

Why Should You Care About Lexile Levels?

Lexile levels aren’t just some random numbers; they’re actually super useful. They give you a standardized way to figure out how complex a text is. They look at things like how long the sentences are and how often certain words pop up. By knowing the Lexile level of Hidden Figures, teachers can make smart choices about which version to use in class, making sure kids are challenged but not drowning. And parents? You can use this info to help your kids pick books they’ll actually enjoy and learn from, sparking that lifelong love of reading.

Ultimately, Hidden Figures is way more than just a book or a movie. It’s a powerful story about STEM, about overcoming obstacles, about civil rights, and about the incredible contributions of women who were, for too long, hidden from history. By understanding the Lexile levels of the different editions, we can make sure this story reaches as many people as possible, inspiring the next generation of innovators and change-makers. And that’s something worth reading about, no matter your age!