Breakout Squad
by Puffin, Ryder Windham
Puffin Books 2009
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Themes include war and conflict
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Genre
Themes
- teamwork
- courage
- loyalty
- leadership
- trust
- war and conflict
- identity and belonging
- resourcefulness
About this book
When a Jedi general disappears deep in Wild Space, his Padawan and a small unit of rookie clone troopers are left to finish a risky mission on their own. Cut off from help, they must rely on quick thinking—and uneasy alliances with smugglers and bounty hunters—to survive. Fast-paced action, Star Wars lore, and a resourceful young hero make this an exciting read for fans of The Clone Wars era. Great for middle-grade readers who enjoy teamwork, daring escapes, and high-stakes adventures.
Setting: the Star Wars galaxy during the Clone Wars, including remote worlds in Wild Space
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Breakout Squad right for my child?
Yes — Breakout Squad is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.6, which is typical for 5th 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, courage, loyalty.
How long does it take to read Breakout Squad?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Breakout Squad takes around 4.3h to finish. The book has 42,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Breakout Squad have an AR quiz?
Yes — Breakout Squad has an AR quiz available, worth 6 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 Breakout Squad?
Breakout Squad has an AR reading level of 5.6, which places it at a 5th 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.