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A Wild Radiance book cover

A Wild Radiance

by Maria Ingrande Mora

Peachtree Teen 2026

Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade

Reading level 5.8 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+

5th grade English Young Adult Fiction
15
AR Points
10h
Read time
AR Quiz Available

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Genre

Fantasy

Themes

  • identity and self-discovery
  • rebellion against oppression
  • power and corruption
  • forbidden romance
  • technology versus tradition
  • found family
  • class inequality
  • freedom and choice

About this book

In a rigid, oligarchic city on the cusp of a magical industrial revolution, Josephine Haven trains at the House of Industry to channel radiance—an electricity-like power—under strict rules that forbid attachments. Her fierce emotions and refusal to fit the mold put her future at risk as she uncovers the costs of progress and power. This romantic fantasy blends steampunk vibes with high-stakes intrigue, perfect for teens who love magic-as-technology and rebellious heroines. Readers will enjoy the vivid worldbuilding, slow-burn romance, and questions about who gets to control innovation.

Setting: an industrializing, oligarchic city-state where radiance (electricity-like magic) powers factories and a strict training academy

Frequently Asked Questions

Is A Wild Radiance right for my child?

It depends — here's what to consider for A Wild Radiance. The reading level is AR 5.8, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include identity and self-discovery, rebellion against oppression, power and corruption.

How long does it take to read A Wild Radiance?

At a typical 5th grade reading pace, A Wild Radiance takes around 10h to finish. The book has 100,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.

Does A Wild Radiance have an AR quiz?

Yes — A Wild Radiance has an AR quiz available, worth 15 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.

What grade level is A Wild Radiance?

A Wild Radiance has an AR reading level of 5.8, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.