Children's book word count calculator
Middle grade Word Count
A Middle grade is typically 20,000 to 55,000 words, written for ages 8 to 12. Use the calculator to check any length, then write one at the perfect size with BookFoundry.
words
That fits a
Middle grade · ages 8-12
Full novels for ages 8 to 12, with real plot and character but age-appropriate themes.
Typical range 20,000-55,000 words (aim for about 35,000).
| Book type | Age | Word count | Pages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Board book | ages 0-3 | 0-100 | 12-24 |
| Picture book | ages 3-7 | 300-800 | 32 |
| Early reader | ages 5-7 | 1,500-3,500 | 32-64 |
| Chapter book | ages 6-9 | 4,000-12,000 | 48-96 |
| Middle grade | ages 8-12 | 20,000-55,000 | 100-250 |
| Young adult | ages 12-18 | 50,000-90,000 | 250-450 |
These are the ranges editors and literary agents expect. Staying inside them makes a children's book easier to sell and to publish on Amazon KDP. Aim for the typical target, not the ceiling.