Between
by Jean Thesman
Viking 2002
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.6 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- coming of age
- family dynamics
- identity
- trust and secrets
- resilience
- independence
- belonging
About this book
A thoughtful contemporary novel about a teen who feels caught between childhood and adulthood—and between the needs of her family and her own growing independence. After yet another move, she must navigate new friendships, complicated family dynamics, and the uneasy space where secrets and trust collide. Readers who like realistic stories grounded in emotion will connect with her voice and quiet resilience. Short chapters and a clear, compelling style make it a strong pick for middle school and young teen readers.
Setting: contemporary Seattle/Pacific Northwest
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Between right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Between. The reading level is AR 4.6, which is typical for 4th 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 coming of age, family dynamics, identity.
How long does it take to read Between?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Between takes around 3.0h to finish. The book has 27,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Between have an AR quiz?
Yes — Between has an AR quiz available, worth 3 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 Between?
Between has an AR reading level of 4.6, which places it at a 4th 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.