Hot cargo
by Brad Collins
High Noon Books 1984
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 2.8 (2nd grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- courage
- integrity
- crime and justice
- responsibility
- perseverance
- standing up for what’s right
- risk and consequence
About this book
When a teen takes a job around the freight docks, he notices that some shipments don’t add up—and the danger ramps up fast. Short chapters, simple vocabulary, and nonstop action make this a strong pick for older struggling readers. The story focuses on doing the right thing when it’s risky and staying cool under pressure. Great for readers who like mysteries with real-world stakes and a quick pace.
Setting: contemporary industrial waterfront and warehouse district (1980s)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hot cargo right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Hot cargo. The reading level is AR 2.8, which is typical for 2nd 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, integrity, crime and justice.
How long does it take to read Hot cargo?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Hot cargo takes around 42m to finish. The book has 5,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Hot cargo have an AR quiz?
Yes — Hot cargo has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 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 Hot cargo?
Hot cargo has an AR reading level of 2.8, which places it at a 2nd 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.