John Diamond
Farrar Straus & Giroux 2001
Great fit for 6th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- trust and betrayal
- courage
- survival
- mystery and deception
- family secrets
- coming of age
About this book
Twelve-year-old William is sent on a perilous errand by his dying father, a cryptic message pointing him toward a mysterious partner named John Diamond. In bustling eighteenth-century London, William navigates dark alleys, grand houses, and crowded playhouses while crossing paths with thieves, actors, and schemers. As clues unfold, he must decide whom to trust and how far he’ll go to protect his father’s legacy. Fast-paced and atmospheric, this historical adventure hooks readers who enjoy mystery, danger, and richly drawn settings.
Setting: Georgian-era London and the English roads, 18th century
Frequently Asked Questions
Is John Diamond right for my child?
Yes — John Diamond is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6.2, which is typical for 6th 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 identity, trust and betrayal, courage.
How long does it take to read John Diamond?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, John Diamond takes around 4.7h to finish. The book has 49,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does John Diamond have an AR quiz?
Yes — John Diamond has an AR quiz available, worth 7 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 John Diamond?
John Diamond has an AR reading level of 6.2, which places it at a 6th 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.