Gone-Away Lake
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt P 1987
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- exploration
- intergenerational relationships
- nostalgia
- community
- independence
- nature
- mystery of the past
About this book
During a long summer, Portia and her cousin Julian stumble upon a hidden community of abandoned Victorian summer houses by a swampy lake. There they befriend two elderly siblings who share stories of the resort’s lively past, turning the children’s explorations into a gentle mystery and a window into another time. Warm, adventurous, and filled with discovery, the book celebrates curiosity, friendship, and the magic of summer freedom. Perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy classic, character-driven adventures.
Setting: abandoned Victorian summer colony by a swampy lake in upstate New York, mid-20th century summer
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gone-Away Lake right for my child?
Yes — Gone-Away Lake is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.3, 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 friendship, exploration, intergenerational relationships.
How long does it take to read Gone-Away Lake?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Gone-Away Lake takes around 5.3h to finish. The book has 52,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Gone-Away Lake have an AR quiz?
Yes — Gone-Away Lake has an AR quiz available, worth 8 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 Gone-Away Lake?
Gone-Away Lake has an AR reading level of 5.3, 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.