Foul Play
1988
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.2 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- teamwork
- integrity
- sibling loyalty
- justice
- sportsmanship
- courage
- crime and investigation
- perseverance
About this book
When a star player on a contending baseball team is blamed for a string of dangerous "accidents," Frank and Joe Hardy are called in to uncover who's behind the sabotage. From locker rooms and practice fields to high-stakes games, the brothers follow clues into the world of sports scandals and illegal betting. Short chapters, nonstop action, and smart sleuthing make this a fast read for mystery and sports fans alike. Great for middle school readers who enjoy teamwork, twists, and a clean, page-turning whodunit.
Setting: Bayport and professional baseball stadiums in a contemporary late-1980s city
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Foul Play right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Foul Play. The reading level is AR 5.2, 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 teamwork, integrity, sibling loyalty.
How long does it take to read Foul Play?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Foul Play takes around 3.9h to finish. The book has 39,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Foul Play have an AR quiz?
Yes — Foul Play has an AR quiz available, worth 5 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 Foul Play?
Foul Play has an AR reading level of 5.2, 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.