Don't Scream
Bantam Doubleday Dell Books for Young Readers 1996
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.5 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- suspense
- trust and betrayal
- courage under pressure
- identity
- friendship
- stalking and intimidation
- secrets
- perseverance
About this book
A tense contemporary thriller from Edgar Award–winner Joan Lowery Nixon. When strange messages and unsettling events start closing in, a teen must figure out who to trust and how to stay safe before the threats turn real. Fast-paced chapters, red herrings, and a smart, determined heroine keep readers turning the pages. Perfect for middle school and early high school readers who enjoy mystery with just the right dose of scare.
Setting: a contemporary American suburb
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Don't Scream right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Don't Scream. The reading level is AR 4.5, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include suspense, trust and betrayal, courage under pressure.
How long does it take to read Don't Scream?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Don't Scream takes around 5.2h to finish. The book has 47,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Don't Scream have an AR quiz?
Yes — Don't Scream has an AR quiz available, worth 5 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 Don't Scream?
Don't Scream has an AR reading level of 4.5, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — 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.