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Dive #1: The Discovery book cover

Dive #1: The Discovery

by Gordon Korman

2025

Great fit for 4th grade

Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14

Themes include ocean and environmental awareness

4th grade English Juvenile Fiction
4
AR Points
3.5h
Read time
AR Quiz Available

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Genre

Adventure

Themes

  • teamwork
  • courage
  • survival
  • mystery and secrets
  • trust and betrayal
  • treasure hunting
  • ethics and responsibility
  • ocean and environmental awareness

About this book

Four kids are selected for a summer diving program and sent to explore reefs and wrecks in tropical waters. What starts as a dream adventure turns risky when sharks circle and a mysterious shipwreck hints at hidden treasure—and hidden agendas. Short chapters, nonstop action, and twisty clues keep readers racing ahead. Perfect for middle-grade fans of survival and mystery stories who like teamwork, ocean settings, and big reveals without heavy gore.

Setting: a research ship and tropical ocean waters (Caribbean/Bahamas), present day

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dive #1: The Discovery right for my child?

Yes — Dive #1: The Discovery is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.8, which is typical for 4th 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, courage, survival.

How long does it take to read Dive #1: The Discovery?

At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Dive #1: The Discovery takes around 3.5h to finish. The book has 32,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.

Does Dive #1: The Discovery have an AR quiz?

Yes — Dive #1: The Discovery has an AR quiz available, worth 4 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 Dive #1: The Discovery?

Dive #1: The Discovery has an AR reading level of 4.8, which places it at a 4th 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.