Going Solo
by Roald Dahl
Puffin Books 1988
Great fit for 6th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
Themes include war and conflict
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Genre
Themes
- courage
- survival
- coming of age
- war and conflict
- resilience
- adventure
- identity
- cross-cultural experiences
About this book
Roald Dahl’s second memoir follows him from his first job in East Africa with Shell Oil to his harrowing service as a Royal Air Force pilot during World War II. Told with his trademark wit and eye for extraordinary detail, Dahl describes close calls with wildlife, the camaraderie of pilots, and the realities of wartime flying. It’s a true-life adventure for older middle-grade readers who enjoy history, travel, and survival stories. Fans of Boy will appreciate seeing how Dahl’s young adulthood shaped the storyteller he became.
Setting: East Africa (Tanganyika) in the late 1930s and the Middle East/Mediterranean during World War II
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Going Solo right for my child?
Yes — Going Solo is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6.1, which is typical for 6th 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 courage, survival, coming of age.
How long does it take to read Going Solo?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Going Solo takes around 6.4h to finish. The book has 67,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Going Solo have an AR quiz?
Yes — Going Solo has an AR quiz available, worth 9 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 Going Solo?
Going Solo has an AR reading level of 6.1, which places it at a 6th 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.