Fallen angels
Scholastic 1984
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.7 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Themes include war and its effects, racism
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Genre
Themes
- war and its effects
- friendship
- courage
- coming of age
- morality and choices
- racism
- loss and grief
- identity
About this book
A Harlem teen named Richie Perry enlists in the Army and is sent to Vietnam, where he confronts the chaos and moral uncertainty of war. Through firefights, patrols, and long nights with his squad, he grapples with fear, loyalty, and the cost of survival. Written in a clear, immediate voice, this powerful novel is best for high school readers and offers a gripping, realistic look at soldiers’ bonds. Teens are drawn to its authenticity, fast pace, and the way it tackles big questions without easy answers.
Setting: Vietnam, late 1960s (Vietnam War); U.S. Army combat zones and base camps
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fallen angels right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Fallen angels. The reading level is AR 4.7, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include war and its effects, friendship, courage.
How long does it take to read Fallen angels?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Fallen angels takes around 12h to finish. The book has 109,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Fallen angels have an AR quiz?
Yes — Fallen angels has an AR quiz available, worth 11 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 Fallen angels?
Fallen angels has an AR reading level of 4.7, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — 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.