Black duck
Philomel Books 2006
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.9 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- loyalty
- moral choices vs. the law
- courage
- friendship
- truth and storytelling
- crime and consequences
- coming of age
About this book
In coastal Rhode Island during Prohibition, a modern-day teen uncovers the long-buried story of rum-runners and the legendary speedboat known as the Black Duck. Through interviews with an elderly man who lived it, the past comes alive with daring night runs, split-second choices, and shifting loyalties. Rich historical detail and a steady sense of mystery keep readers turning pages. Perfect for middle schoolers who like history mixed with danger and moral dilemmas—without graphic content.
Setting: coastal Rhode Island and southern New England during Prohibition (late 1920s–early 1930s)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Black duck right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Black duck. The reading level is AR 4.9, 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 loyalty, moral choices vs. the law, courage.
How long does it take to read Black duck?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Black duck takes around 7.8h to finish. The book has 70,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Black duck have an AR quiz?
Yes — Black duck 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 Black duck?
Black duck has an AR reading level of 4.9, 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.