Earth Force Rising
by Monica Tesler
Simon and Schuster 2016
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- teamwork
- courage
- ethics of technology
- loyalty
- identity
- trust
- conspiracy and secrets
About this book
Twelve-year-old Jasper Adams is recruited by Earth Force to join the Bounders, a team of elite cadets trained to use cutting-edge tech for instant space travel. At a high-stakes academy far from home, Jasper and his new friends juggle classes, simulations, and the pressure to perform—while sensing that Earth Force is hiding something big. Fast-paced missions, clever science, and tight-knit teamwork drive this series opener. Perfect for middle-grade readers who love space adventure, secret programs, and squads of friends learning to trust one another.
Setting: a near-future space academy and off-world training facilities within the Earth Force program
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Earth Force Rising right for my child?
Yes — Earth Force Rising is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.3, which is typical for 5th 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 friendship, teamwork, courage.
How long does it take to read Earth Force Rising?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Earth Force Rising takes around 9.6h to finish. The book has 95,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Earth Force Rising have an AR quiz?
Yes — Earth Force Rising has an AR quiz available, worth 12 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 Earth Force Rising?
Earth Force Rising has an AR reading level of 5.3, which places it at a 5th 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.