Clue in the Diary
Grosset & Dunlap 2003
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- friendship
- justice
- resourcefulness
- courage
- perseverance
- truth vs. appearances
- problem-solving
About this book
After witnessing a mysterious house explosion, Nancy Drew discovers a lost diary that may hold the key to a string of crimes. With Bess and George at her side—and a new acquaintance, Ned Nickerson—Nancy follows puzzling clues, interviews suspects, and outsmarts danger. This classic whodunit blends fast-paced sleuthing with everyday humor and friendship. Great for readers who enjoy smart, capable heroines and twisty mysteries without heavy scares.
Setting: River Heights and nearby towns, 1930s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Clue in the Diary right for my child?
Yes — Clue in the Diary is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.4, 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, justice, resourcefulness.
How long does it take to read Clue in the Diary?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Clue in the Diary takes around 4.3h to finish. The book has 42,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Clue in the Diary have an AR quiz?
Yes — Clue in the Diary has an AR quiz available, worth 7 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 Clue in the Diary?
Clue in the Diary has an AR reading level of 5.4, 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.