Burned
Margaret K. McElderry Books 2008
House of Night
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 3.7 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Themes include abuse and trauma
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- identity
- abuse and trauma
- religion and faith
- first love
- rebellion vs. control
- family secrets
- self-discovery
- freedom
About this book
Told in free verse, Burned follows Pattyn, a teen raised in a strict, abusive household where questions are not welcome. After a mistake brings harsher scrutiny, she’s sent to live with an aunt in rural Nevada, where open skies and new friendships help her imagine a different future. As Pattyn explores first love and her own beliefs, she begins to challenge the rules that have defined her life. Mature themes and an intimate voice make this a powerful choice for older teens who like raw, emotionally honest stories.
Setting: contemporary rural Nevada, desert ranch and small-town community
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Burned right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Burned. The reading level is AR 3.7, which is typical for 3rd 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 identity, abuse and trauma, religion and faith.
How long does it take to read Burned?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Burned takes around 4.9h to finish. The book has 40,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Burned have an AR quiz?
Yes — Burned 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 Burned?
Burned has an AR reading level of 3.7, which places it at a 3rd 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.