Gregor the Overlander
Scholastic Paperbacks 2025
Book 1 of The Underland Chronicles
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Themes include war and peace
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Genre
Themes
- courage
- family loyalty
- destiny and prophecy
- friendship
- war and peace
- identity
- sacrifice
About this book
When eleven-year-old Gregor tumbles through a grate in his New York City apartment building, he discovers the Underland—a hidden world of giant bats, cockroaches, spiders, and pale-skinned humans on the brink of war. A mysterious prophecy hints that Gregor has a crucial role to play, and a personal quest gives him a reason to stay. Fast-paced action, rich world-building, and surprising alliances make this a gripping read for middle-grade adventurers. Fans love its blend of danger, humor, and heart.
Setting: the Underland, a vast subterranean world beneath New York City
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gregor the Overlander right for my child?
Yes — Gregor the Overlander is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.8, which is typical for 4th 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 courage, family loyalty, destiny and prophecy.
How long does it take to read Gregor the Overlander?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Gregor the Overlander takes around 5.8h to finish. The book has 52,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Gregor the Overlander have an AR quiz?
Yes — Gregor the Overlander 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 Gregor the Overlander?
Gregor the Overlander has an AR reading level of 4.8, which places it at a 4th 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.