Boardwalk Bust
Simon and Schuster 2010
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- teamwork
- brotherhood
- problem-solving
- courage
- justice
- deception
- community safety
- responsibility
About this book
Frank and Joe Hardy head to the Jersey Shore when a string of jewelry store heists hits the Ocean Grove boardwalk. Working undercover for ATAC, they sift through crowds of tourists, shop owners, and thrill-seekers to find a thief who may be striking by land and air. Quick clues, close calls, and plenty of action keep the pages turning. Perfect for mystery fans who like fast-paced plots, brotherly teamwork, and beach-town vibes.
Setting: Ocean Grove, New Jersey boardwalk and beaches, present day
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boardwalk Bust right for my child?
Yes — Boardwalk Bust is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.6, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 9–14 (4th–8th grade). Themes include teamwork, brotherhood, problem-solving.
How long does it take to read Boardwalk Bust?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Boardwalk Bust takes around 4.0h to finish. The book has 36,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Boardwalk Bust have an AR quiz?
Yes — Boardwalk Bust has an AR quiz available, worth 5 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 Boardwalk Bust?
Boardwalk Bust has an AR reading level of 4.6, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8) — 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.