Damage
HarperTeen 2001
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5.1 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- depression and mental health
- identity
- masculinity and expectations
- romantic relationships
- isolation
- family dynamics
- sports pressure
- stigma
About this book
High school football standout Austin Reid looks like he has it all, but inside he’s fighting a darkness he can’t explain. As pressure mounts from school, friends, and a complicated relationship, he struggles to keep up the appearance that everything is fine. Told in a stark, honest voice, the story offers a rare look at teen depression from a male perspective. It’s a powerful read for mature teens who appreciate realistic, emotionally intense stories.
Setting: a contemporary suburban high school
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Damage right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Damage. The reading level is AR 5.1, 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 depression and mental health, identity, masculinity and expectations.
How long does it take to read Damage?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Damage takes around 5.3h to finish. The book has 52,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Damage have an AR quiz?
Yes — Damage has an AR quiz available, worth 6 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 Damage?
Damage has an AR reading level of 5.1, 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.