Deadly Chase
Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books 1986
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- teamwork
- brotherhood
- espionage
- art theft
- courage
- deception
- justice
- problem-solving
About this book
When a German reporter asks for help, Frank and Joe Hardy dive into a case involving missing top‑secret plans and a string of stolen paintings. Clues lead from Bayport to Europe as the brothers untangle art theft, espionage, and double-crosses. Packed with chases, code-breaking, and close calls, this mystery keeps pages turning. Great for middle-grade readers who enjoy fast-paced adventures and solving puzzles alongside the detectives.
Setting: Bayport and Germany, contemporary 1980s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Deadly Chase right for my child?
Yes — Deadly Chase is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.2, which is typical for 5th 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 teamwork, brotherhood, espionage.
How long does it take to read Deadly Chase?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Deadly Chase takes around 4.3h to finish. The book has 42,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Deadly Chase have an AR quiz?
Yes — Deadly Chase 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 Deadly Chase?
Deadly Chase has an AR reading level of 5.2, which places it at a 5th 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.