Code Orange
Random House Children's Books 2016
Great fit for 6th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- responsibility
- courage
- public health
- identity
- ethics in science
- fear and bravery
- civic duty
- suspense
About this book
High schooler Mitty Blake coasts through life in Manhattan until a biology assignment leads him to an old medical book—and a chilling discovery tied to smallpox. As he digs deeper, Mitty realizes his research might have real-world consequences and that someone else may be watching. The story blends medical facts with fast-paced suspense, making it a gripping read for middle school and early high school students. Kids enjoy the high stakes, relatable teen voice, and the race-against-time mystery.
Setting: Contemporary New York City (Manhattan), post-9/11
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Code Orange right for my child?
Yes — Code Orange is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6.2, which is typical for 6th 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 responsibility, courage, public health.
How long does it take to read Code Orange?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Code Orange takes around 5.2h to finish. The book has 54,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Code Orange have an AR quiz?
Yes — Code Orange 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 Code Orange?
Code Orange has an AR reading level of 6.2, which places it at a 6th 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.