Crocodile burning
Lodestar Books 1992
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5.7 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- ambition and fame
- cultural clash
- family and responsibility
- social justice and politics
- friendship and loyalty
- coming of age
- the power of art
About this book
Set in the final years of apartheid, this novel follows a talented teen from a South African township whose gift for dance propels him onto an international stage. As he travels with a musical production and experiences New York City, he must balance ambition with loyalty to home and the pressures of political unrest. The story examines identity, fame, and the cost of choices in a rapidly changing world. Fans of realistic, character-driven stories with strong cultural settings will be drawn in.
Setting: South African townships and New York City, early 1990s (end of apartheid)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Crocodile burning right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Crocodile burning. The reading level is AR 5.7, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include identity, ambition and fame, cultural clash.
How long does it take to read Crocodile burning?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Crocodile burning takes around 8.6h to finish. The book has 85,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Crocodile burning have an AR quiz?
Yes — Crocodile burning has an AR quiz available, worth 12 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 Crocodile burning?
Crocodile burning has an AR reading level of 5.7, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — 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.