Doom Stone
by Paul Zindel
Hyperion Paperbacks for Children 1996
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.1 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- courage
- survival
- fear and bravery
- science vs. superstition
- family bonds
- mystery
- responsibility
- folklore and legend
About this book
When 15-year-old Jackson travels to England to visit his archaeologist mother near Stonehenge, he’s pulled into a terrifying hunt for a creature behind a string of brutal attacks. As the mystery deepens, Jackson must rely on his courage and quick thinking to uncover what’s stalking the Salisbury Plain. Fast-paced and creepy, this thriller blends science, folklore, and monster mayhem. Great for middle school readers who love high-stakes suspense and creature features.
Setting: modern-day Salisbury Plain near Stonehenge, England
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Doom Stone right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Doom Stone. The reading level is AR 5.1, which is typical for 5th 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 courage, survival, fear and bravery.
How long does it take to read Doom Stone?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Doom Stone takes around 4.8h to finish. The book has 47,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Doom Stone have an AR quiz?
Yes — Doom Stone 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 Doom Stone?
Doom Stone has an AR reading level of 5.1, which places it at a 5th 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.