Double Dog Dare
by Jamie Gilson
Lothrop, Lee and Shepard Books 1988
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- peer pressure
- friendship
- choices and consequences
- courage
- humor and pranks
- school life
- standing up for yourself
About this book
A simple playground challenge turns into a full-on dare war at school, with each stunt funnier—and riskier—than the last. As the dares escalate, classmates have to decide when to join in and when to say no, learning about courage, consequences, and true friendship along the way. Jamie Gilson’s quick chapters, sharp humor, and authentic classroom dynamics make this a relatable read for upper-elementary and middle-grade readers. Perfect for kids who enjoy realistic school stories and laugh-out-loud moments.
Setting: a suburban Midwestern elementary school, late 1980s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Double Dog Dare right for my child?
Yes — Double Dog Dare is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.3, 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 peer pressure, friendship, choices and consequences.
How long does it take to read Double Dog Dare?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Double Dog Dare takes around 3.1h to finish. The book has 28,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Double Dog Dare have an AR quiz?
Yes — Double Dog Dare 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 Double Dog Dare?
Double Dog Dare has an AR reading level of 4.3, 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.