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Safe for the age band
Age-appropriate with no significant concerns.
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- Publisher
- Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers
- ISBN
- 9781481423144
- Published
- 2014
- Reading level
- early
- Ages
- 8–12
Why parents choose this book
What makes The Contract worth choosing
An honest, parent-first look at who this book suits, what it offers, and what to know before you buy.
Best for
- Age range: 8–12 (fits siblings across a range).
- Reading maturity: Middle grade — richer plots and vocabulary with age-appropriate themes.
- Kids who tend to love it: Sports.
- Personality fit: sporty kids.
Parents love this book because
- Age-appropriate content for the 8–12 band with no significant flags.
- Reinforces values many families care about: perseverance.
- Written by Derek Jeter, whose books parents return to for consistently thoughtful storytelling.
Your child will probably enjoy The Contract if they…
- Like sports stories
This book helps develop
- Perseverance
Things parents should know
No significant content concerns for this age band. Preview with your reader if you want to discuss any specific themes.
Reading commitment
Estimated reading time
Varies by reader
Length
Length varies by edition
Difficulty
Middle grade
Works as read-aloud
Works, but often chosen by independent readers
Good for independent readers
Yes — suits confident readers in the age band
Why we recommend it
We think The Contract is a confident pick for the 8–12 age band. It leans into sports in a way that feels genuine, not formulaic. Derek Jeter's voice is what makes it stick: readable, respectful of kids, and easy to hand to the next child in the family.
Content ratings
Violence0/4
Romance0/4
Language0/4
Scary content0/4
Faith content0/4
Sexual content0/4
Topics
Values