Burn Out
by Paul Kropp
Tandem Library 1981
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 3.7 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- stress and pressure
- peer influence
- choices and consequences
- responsibility
- family dynamics
- identity
- risk-taking
- resilience
About this book
A realistic, high-interest novel about a teen who’s stretched too thin by school, work, and expectations, and starts to flame out. As pressures mount, he’s tempted by risky choices and quick fixes that could cost him more than he realizes. Fast-paced and accessible, the story speaks to reluctant and striving readers with authentic teen voice and everyday stakes. Kids relate to the stress, the pull of friends, and the challenge of taking responsibility.
Setting: contemporary North American city, 1980s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Burn Out right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Burn Out. The reading level is AR 3.7, which is typical for 3rd 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 stress and pressure, peer influence, choices and consequences.
How long does it take to read Burn Out?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Burn Out takes around 2.2h to finish. The book has 18,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Burn Out have an AR quiz?
Yes — Burn Out has an AR quiz available, worth 2 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 Burn Out?
Burn Out has an AR reading level of 3.7, which places it at a 3rd 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.