Breaktime
Harry N. Abrams 2008
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5.6 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- self-discovery
- first love
- family expectations
- father–son relationships
- identity
- road trip
- literature and writing
About this book
When a sharp-witted, book-obsessed teen is challenged by his best friend to prove that literature can capture real life, he takes off on an impulsive getaway. On the road and in the countryside, he stumbles into first love, new friendships, and a fresh look at family pressures. Told in inventive fragments—notes, quotes, and playful commentary—the story invites readers to think about truth, storytelling, and growing up. Perfect for thoughtful older teens who enjoy smart, character-driven coming-of-age tales.
Setting: England (largely on the road and in the countryside), contemporary to the late 1970s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Breaktime right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Breaktime. The reading level is AR 5.6, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include friendship, self-discovery, first love.
How long does it take to read Breaktime?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Breaktime takes around 6.4h to finish. The book has 63,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Breaktime have an AR quiz?
Yes — Breaktime has an AR quiz available, worth 9 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 Breaktime?
Breaktime has an AR reading level of 5.6, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — 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.