Gang War
by Paul Kropp
Tandem Library 1999
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 3.4 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
Themes include violence and its impact
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- gangs and turf conflict
- loyalty and betrayal
- choices and consequences
- violence and its impact
- family responsibility
- peer pressure
- identity
- redemption
About this book
This high-interest, easy-to-read novel follows a teen caught between friends who want payback and a family that needs him to stay out of trouble. As tensions rise between rival crews, he has to decide whether loyalty means fighting or finding a way to stop the cycle. Fast pacing, short chapters, and clear language make it accessible for reluctant readers. Students are drawn to its real-world stakes and the question of how one choice can change everything.
Setting: a contemporary urban neighborhood
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gang War right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Gang War. The reading level is AR 3.4, which is typical for 3rd 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 gangs and turf conflict, loyalty and betrayal, choices and consequences.
How long does it take to read Gang War?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Gang War takes around 2.1h to finish. The book has 17,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Gang War have an AR quiz?
Yes — Gang War has an AR quiz available, worth 2 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 Gang War?
Gang War has an AR reading level of 3.4, which places it at a 3rd 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.