Catching Fire
Scholastic 2009
Book 2 of The Hunger Games
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.3 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
Book 2 in a series — earlier books first
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Genre
Themes
- survival
- resistance to oppression
- sacrifice
- government control
- loyalty and trust
- media manipulation
- identity
- courage
About this book
In this gripping sequel to The Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen becomes a symbol of defiance as the Capitol tightens its control over the districts. She must navigate dangerous politics, protect those she loves, and figure out who to trust when every choice has consequences. Fast-paced action, high stakes, and thought-provoking questions about power and courage keep readers turning pages. Perfect for teens who enjoy dystopian worlds with strong characters and intense suspense.
Setting: the dystopian nation of Panem, including District 12 and the Capitol
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Catching Fire right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Catching Fire. The reading level is AR 5.3, which is typical for 5th 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 survival, resistance to oppression, sacrifice. Note: this is book 2 in a series — your child should read the earlier books first.
How long does it take to read Catching Fire?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Catching Fire takes around 10h to finish. The book has 101,564 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Catching Fire have an AR quiz?
Yes — Catching Fire has an AR quiz available, worth 16 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 Catching Fire?
Catching Fire has an AR reading level of 5.3, which places it at a 5th 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.