Death walk
by Walt Morey
Blue Heron Pub. Co. 1991
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- survival
- courage
- respect for nature
- self-reliance
- mentor-mentee relationships
- grief and healing
- perseverance
- human–animal bond
About this book
In this wilderness adventure from the author of Gentle Ben, a teenage boy is thrust into a perilous trek across rugged country after events force him to travel on foot to safety. Facing harsh weather, wild animals, and difficult choices, he relies on outdoor skills, a loyal animal companion, and the lessons of seasoned woodsmen. The story blends suspense with a deep respect for nature, highlighting grit and quiet courage. Perfect for readers who love survival tales and human–animal friendships.
Setting: the Alaskan wilderness in modern times
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Death walk right for my child?
Yes — Death walk is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.7, 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 survival, courage, respect for nature.
How long does it take to read Death walk?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Death walk takes around 4.8h to finish. The book has 47,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Death walk have an AR quiz?
Yes — Death walk has an AR quiz available, worth 7 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 Death walk?
Death walk has an AR reading level of 5.7, 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.