Calico Captive
by Elizabeth George Speare, W. T. Mars
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Trade & Reference Publishers 2018
Great fit for 6th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- survival
- courage
- family bonds
- resilience
- cultural encounters
- identity
- hope
- freedom
About this book
When Abenaki raiders seize Miriam Willard and her family from their New Hampshire home in 1754, she is thrust into a perilous journey north during the French and Indian War. In unfamiliar camps and the streets of Montréal, Miriam must rely on her wits, skills, and determination to keep hope alive and protect those she loves. Rich historical detail and a strong, relatable heroine make this a gripping read for middle-grade and early teen readers. Fans of frontier survival and culture-crossing stories will be drawn to its suspense and heart.
Setting: New Hampshire frontier and French Canada (Montréal/Quebec), 1750s during the French and Indian War
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Calico Captive right for my child?
Yes — Calico Captive is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6.1, which is typical for 6th 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 survival, courage, family bonds.
How long does it take to read Calico Captive?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Calico Captive takes around 6.6h to finish. The book has 69,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Calico Captive have an AR quiz?
Yes — Calico Captive 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 Calico Captive?
Calico Captive has an AR reading level of 6.1, which places it at a 6th 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.