Down a Dark Hall
by Lois Duncan
Laurel Leaf 1990
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.3 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- isolation
- identity
- supernatural forces
- control and manipulation
- courage
- friendship and loyalty
- power of art and creativity
- secrets
About this book
When Kit Gordy arrives at the remote Blackwood boarding school, she senses something is wrong—from the eerily empty halls to the intense, watchful headmistress. As Kit and the other few students begin displaying uncanny talents, the school’s dark history starts to surface. Tension builds with every strange occurrence, pushing Kit to uncover the truth before it’s too late. A fast, spooky read perfect for middle schoolers and teens who love atmospheric thrillers without gore.
Setting: a secluded, elite boarding school in upstate New York (contemporary to publication)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Down a Dark Hall right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Down a Dark Hall. The reading level is AR 5.3, 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 isolation, identity, supernatural forces.
How long does it take to read Down a Dark Hall?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Down a Dark Hall takes around 5.5h to finish. The book has 55,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Down a Dark Hall have an AR quiz?
Yes — Down a Dark Hall 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 Down a Dark Hall?
Down a Dark Hall has an AR reading level of 5.3, 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.