
Clues in the Woods
by Peggy Parish
Collier-Mac 1968
Easy read — content targets 4th–8th grade
Reading level 3.7 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- mystery and puzzles
- teamwork
- family
- resourcefulness
- courage
- problem-solving
- nature and the outdoors
About this book
When siblings Liza, Bill, and Jed head into the woods near their grandparents’ home, they stumble onto strange clues that hint at a hidden secret. The trio uses teamwork, logic, and a love of codes to piece together the mystery without getting in over their heads. Short, suspenseful chapters and plenty of outdoor adventure make this a page-turner for elementary readers ready for longer books. Fans of gentle mysteries and family-centered adventures will enjoy solving the puzzle alongside the kids.
Setting: small-town countryside and woods, summertime
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Clues in the Woods right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Clues in the Woods. The reading level is AR 3.7, which is typical for 3rd 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 mystery and puzzles, teamwork, family.
How long does it take to read Clues in the Woods?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Clues in the Woods takes around 2.2h to finish. The book has 18,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Clues in the Woods have an AR quiz?
Yes — Clues in the Woods has an AR quiz available, worth 2 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 Clues in the Woods?
Clues in the Woods has an AR reading level of 3.7, which places it at a 3rd 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.