We've got your back. With the Tough-O-Meter, you'll know whether to bring extra layers or Swiss army knives as you summit the literary mountain. (10 = Toughest)
(3) Base Camp
Katherine Paterson may create books for young adults, but the subjects she writes about are Big with a capital B. This book is no different. While the dialogue and plot aren't difficult to follow in Jacob Have I Loved, Louise is really wading through some tough stuff as she grows up. She's dealing with loads of bitterness, jealousy, resentment, and self-loathing as she tries to figure out her place in the world.
Some of the Bible references might also go over the heads of the unfamiliar. Fear not, though—we have your back, including a handy section on religion over in "Themes" to help you out.
In short, with a tiny bit of buckling down, pretty much anyone can enjoy this literary ride.