Deathwatch
by Robb White
Penguin 1988
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 6.4 (6th 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
- survival
- man vs. nature
- man vs. man
- power and corruption
- courage
- justice
- resilience
- moral choices
About this book
College student Ben agrees to guide a wealthy businessman on a desert hunt, only to find himself stranded and hunted in the scorching Mojave. With nothing but his wits, he must outthink the elements—and the man tracking him. Fast-paced and tense, this survival thriller hooks readers with high stakes, clever problem-solving, and a relentless cat‑and‑mouse chase. Ideal for teens who enjoy outdoor adventure and psychological suspense.
Setting: Mojave Desert, contemporary era
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Deathwatch right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Deathwatch. The reading level is AR 6.4, which is typical for 6th 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 survival, man vs. nature, man vs. man.
How long does it take to read Deathwatch?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Deathwatch takes around 4.3h to finish. The book has 45,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Deathwatch have an AR quiz?
Yes — Deathwatch 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 Deathwatch?
Deathwatch has an AR reading level of 6.4, which places it at a 6th 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.