Cast of Criminals
Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books 1989
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship and loyalty
- courage under pressure
- teamwork
- crime and justice
- perseverance
- theater and performing arts
- sabotage
- problem-solving
About this book
When a priceless tiara vanishes from the theater and threatening notes appear, Frank and Joe race to protect Frank’s girlfriend, Callie, before opening night. Backstage secrets, jealous rivals, and high-stakes clues keep the Hardy Boys sleuthing both on and off the stage. Fast-paced and full of suspense, this mystery appeals to middle-grade readers who enjoy puzzles, action, and the world of school plays. Fans of the series will enjoy seeing the brothers balance danger with loyalty to a close friend.
Setting: Contemporary Bayport; backstage and onstage at a community/school theater production
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cast of Criminals right for my child?
Yes — Cast of Criminals is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.1, 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 friendship and loyalty, courage under pressure, teamwork.
How long does it take to read Cast of Criminals?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Cast of Criminals takes around 3.7h to finish. The book has 37,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Cast of Criminals have an AR quiz?
Yes — Cast of Criminals has an AR quiz available, worth 5 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 Cast of Criminals?
Cast of Criminals has an AR reading level of 5.1, 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.