Assassin
by Anna Myers
Scholastic 2005
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.7 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
Themes include consequences of violence
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Genre
Themes
- hero worship
- loyalty
- moral choices
- grief and healing
- fame and influence
- family bonds
- consequences of violence
- identity
About this book
Set in the final days of the Civil War, this historical novel follows two boys in Washington, D.C.: Tad Lincoln, the president’s lively younger son, and a streetwise teen who idolizes the famous actor John Wilkes Booth. As their worlds move closer to a fateful night at Ford’s Theatre, each boy must confront what it means to be loyal, brave, and true. Rich period details and a rising sense of suspense make this an engaging read for middle schoolers who enjoy history. Readers are drawn to the vivid characters and the behind-the-scenes look at life in the White House and the theater world.
Setting: Washington, D.C., 1864–1865; the White House and Ford’s Theatre
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Assassin right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Assassin. The reading level is AR 5.7, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include hero worship, loyalty, moral choices.
How long does it take to read Assassin?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Assassin takes around 5.3h to finish. The book has 52,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Assassin have an AR quiz?
Yes — Assassin has an AR quiz available, worth 7 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 Assassin?
Assassin has an AR reading level of 5.7, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — 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.