Coffin on a case
by Eve Bunting
HarperTrophy 1992
Great fit for 4th 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
- mystery and investigation
- courage
- resourcefulness
- identity
- family
- trust
- perseverance
- right and wrong
About this book
A boy with the unforgettable nickname Coffin dreams of being a real private detective, and he finally gets his chance when a mysterious new case lands in his lap. With a notebook full of clues and more courage than experience, he follows leads through his city’s streets, docks, and shadowy corners. The short chapters, humor, and steady suspense keep readers turning pages. It’s a great pick for middle-grade mystery fans who like clever heroes and twisty, not-too-scary adventures.
Setting: contemporary big-city neighborhood and waterfront
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Coffin on a case right for my child?
Yes — Coffin on a case is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.2, which is typical for 4th 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 investigation, courage, resourcefulness.
How long does it take to read Coffin on a case?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Coffin on a case takes around 2.2h to finish. The book has 20,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Coffin on a case have an AR quiz?
Yes — Coffin on a case has an AR quiz available, worth 3 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 Coffin on a case?
Coffin on a case has an AR reading level of 4.2, which places it at a 4th 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.