Counterfeit Christmas
Simon Pulse 1994
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.1 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- crime and justice
- deception and trust
- teamwork
- courage
- holiday spirit
- persistence
- danger and suspense
About this book
It’s the holiday season in River Heights when Bess receives two crisp twenty-dollar bills—only to discover they’re fake. Nancy Drew dives into a counterfeiting case that quickly turns dangerous, with clues suggesting the forger may also be tied to a deadly crime. Fast-paced and full of red herrings, this mystery blends festive settings with high-stakes sleuthing. Great for middle school readers who enjoy smart teamwork, suspense, and a dash of holiday intrigue.
Setting: River Heights during the Christmas season, including shops and holiday events in a small Midwestern town
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Counterfeit Christmas right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Counterfeit Christmas. The reading level is AR 5.1, which is typical for 5th 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 friendship, crime and justice, deception and trust.
How long does it take to read Counterfeit Christmas?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Counterfeit Christmas takes around 4.3h to finish. The book has 43,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Counterfeit Christmas have an AR quiz?
Yes — Counterfeit Christmas has an AR quiz available, worth 5 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 Counterfeit Christmas?
Counterfeit Christmas has an AR reading level of 5.1, which places it at a 5th 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.