Grounded for All Eternity
by Darcy Marks
Aladdin 2023
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- identity
- good vs. evil
- family expectations
- bravery
- rule-breaking and consequences
- teamwork
- second chances
About this book
Mal and his friends are just regular middle-schoolers—who happen to live in the suburbs of the underworld. When Hell’s Bells ring to warn that a dangerous soul has escaped, the kids sneak into the forbidden human world to set things right before anyone notices. Their chase becomes a fast, funny, and slightly spooky adventure full of close calls, secrets, and unexpected allies. Perfect for fans of humorous fantasy, it blends eerie thrills with heart and friendship.
Setting: the suburbs of the underworld (Hell) and a contemporary small town on Earth
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Grounded for All Eternity right for my child?
Yes — Grounded for All Eternity is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.4, 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, identity, good vs. evil.
How long does it take to read Grounded for All Eternity?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Grounded for All Eternity takes around 8.8h to finish. The book has 87,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Grounded for All Eternity have an AR quiz?
Yes — Grounded for All Eternity has an AR quiz available, worth 12 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 Grounded for All Eternity?
Grounded for All Eternity has an AR reading level of 5.4, 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.