Chapter Books vs. Middle Grade: What’s the Difference?
What’s the difference between a middle grade novel and a chapter book?
The lines can often seem blurry – but the truth is that each is a unique format in children’s publishing. The table below clarifies the essential but often subtle differences between the two:
| Â |
MIDDLE GRADE |
CHAPTER BOOKS |
|
AUDIENCE |
Reader is usually between the ages of 8 and 12. | Reader usually between the ages of 7-10 (grades 2-4). |
|
AGE OF PROTAGONIST |
Hero is usually 10-13, and in middle school (grades 4-8). | Heroes usually between the ages of 7-10. May have anthropomorphic heroes. |
|
LENGTH |
150-200 pages (average). 20,000 – 60,000 words. | 45-60 pages (average). 5,000-20,000 words. |
|
ILLUSTRATIONS |
Few, if any, illustrations. | May be plentiful, even on every page. Illustrations go with text and are usually in black and white. |
|
CONTENT |
Action is important, but description/exposition is also important. Stakes can be high. Character journey and development is key. | Action is key. Stakes are lower. Characters tend to stay consistent. Little major character development. |
This chart is one of several from Just Write for Middle Grade! my 14-week course in writing chapter books and middle grade novels.  Please visit www.justwriteformiddlegrade.com for more information.
