Cut
PUSH 2011
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.1 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- mental health
- healing and recovery
- self-discovery
- family dynamics
- isolation and connection
- trust and vulnerability
- identity
- resilience
About this book
Cut follows Callie, a quiet fifteen-year-old who has been hurting herself and is sent to a residential treatment center. Through therapy and the stories of other girls she meets, Callie begins to find her voice and consider new ways to cope. Written in spare, accessible prose, the book offers a compassionate look at mental health and recovery without glamorizing pain. It’s a powerful choice for mature teens and for parents and educators looking to open conversations about help, hope, and healing.
Setting: a contemporary U.S. residential treatment center
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cut right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Cut. The reading level is AR 4.1, which is typical for 4th 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 mental health, healing and recovery, self-discovery.
How long does it take to read Cut?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Cut takes around 3.8h to finish. The book has 34,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Cut have an AR quiz?
Yes — Cut 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 Cut?
Cut has an AR reading level of 4.1, which places it at a 4th 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.