Darke
by Angie Sage
Bloomsbury Publishing 2011
Great fit for 6th 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
- friendship
- courage
- good vs. evil
- loyalty
- destiny
- teamwork
- perseverance
- family
About this book
In the sixth Septimus Heap adventure, Septimus turns fourteen and enters the ominous Darke Week, a pivotal test in his Wizard Apprenticeship. Determined to bring back his banished friend Alther, he undertakes a risky mission just as a creeping Darke force threatens the Castle. With Jenna, Beetle, and his allies by his side, Septimus must outwit powerful magic and face his greatest fears. Fast-paced, witty, and full of inventive spells, this installment delights readers who love rich world-building and brave friends working together.
Setting: the Castle and surrounding magical realm in the Septimus Heap world
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Darke right for my child?
Yes — Darke is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6, which is typical for 6th 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 friendship, courage, good vs. evil.
How long does it take to read Darke?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Darke takes around 15h to finish. The book has 160,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Darke have an AR quiz?
Yes — Darke has an AR quiz available, worth 22 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 Darke?
Darke has an AR reading level of 6, which places it at a 6th 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.