From Norvelt to Nowhere
by Jack Gantos
Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR) 2013
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- coming of age
- community
- humor
- justice
- mentorship
- grief
- civic responsibility
- history and memory
About this book
In this sharp, funny sequel to Dead End in Norvelt, twelve-year-old Jack is swept into a cross-country chase with his eccentric mentor, Miss Volker, just as fears from the Cuban Missile Crisis loom in the background. What begins as small-town trouble in Norvelt, Pennsylvania, turns into a road-trip mystery filled with odd crimes, quirky history lessons, and nail-biting close calls. Readers who enjoy dark humor, fast pacing, and a heartfelt look at community and responsibility will be hooked. Perfect for middle graders who like historical settings mixed with laughs and intrigue.
Setting: Norvelt, a small town in western Pennsylvania, and a road trip across the eastern U.S., early 1960s (Cuban Missile Crisis era)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is From Norvelt to Nowhere right for my child?
Yes — From Norvelt to Nowhere is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.7, 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 coming of age, community, humor.
How long does it take to read From Norvelt to Nowhere?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, From Norvelt to Nowhere takes around 7.4h to finish. The book has 73,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does From Norvelt to Nowhere have an AR quiz?
Yes — From Norvelt to Nowhere has an AR quiz available, worth 10 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 From Norvelt to Nowhere?
From Norvelt to Nowhere has an AR reading level of 5.7, 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.