Chase
by Jessie Haas
Greenwillow 2007
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- courage
- justice
- perseverance
- family loyalty
- identity
- trust
- survival
- responsibility
About this book
Set in 19th-century Vermont, this historical adventure follows a determined young teen whose split-second decision pulls him into a high-stakes pursuit across back roads, river crossings, and rail depots. With a loyal horse and quick wits, he navigates rough country, shifting loyalties, and the thin line between law and lawless. Readers who enjoy fast-paced, horse-centered stories and rich historical detail will be hooked. Perfect for middle-grade fans of action, mystery, and courage under pressure.
Setting: rural Vermont and small New England towns, 19th century
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chase right for my child?
Yes — Chase is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.5, 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 courage, justice, perseverance.
How long does it take to read Chase?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Chase takes around 6.6h to finish. The book has 65,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Chase have an AR quiz?
Yes — Chase 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 Chase?
Chase has an AR reading level of 5.5, 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.