Help! I'm a prisoner in the library!
Scholastic 1985
Easy read — content targets 4th–8th grade
Reading level 3.8 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- sisterhood
- courage
- resourcefulness
- mystery and clues
- problem-solving
- overcoming fear
- family
- love of books and libraries
About this book
When sisters Mary Rose and Jo-Beth get stranded in a small-town library during a snowstorm, a simple wait for a ride turns into an overnight adventure. With the power flickering and the old building full of surprises, the girls follow clues, face their fears, and use quick thinking to find help. Short chapters, gentle suspense, and humor make this a fast, fun read for elementary and middle-grade readers. Perfect for kids who love mysteries, libraries, and stories about brave siblings.
Setting: a small-town public library during a winter snowstorm, late 20th century
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Help! I'm a prisoner in the library! right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Help! I'm a prisoner in the library!. The reading level is AR 3.8, which is typical for 3rd 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 sisterhood, courage, resourcefulness.
How long does it take to read Help! I'm a prisoner in the library!?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Help! I'm a prisoner in the library! takes around 2.2h to finish. The book has 18,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Help! I'm a prisoner in the library! have an AR quiz?
Yes — Help! I'm a prisoner in the library! 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 Help! I'm a prisoner in the library!?
Help! I'm a prisoner in the library! has an AR reading level of 3.8, which places it at a 3rd 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.