Kringle
Scholastic Press 2005
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- courage
- destiny
- hope
- generosity
- good vs. evil
- freedom
- found family
- perseverance
About this book
In this epic holiday origin story, an orphan named Kringle grows up in a harsh, wintry world ruled by goblins who steal children away. With the help of elves, a brave girl, and a band of unlikely allies, he discovers a destiny tied to hope and giving. Rich in folklore and adventure, the book blends myth, magic, and midwinter traditions into a sweeping tale. It’s a great pick for confident middle-grade readers who enjoy fantasy quests and Christmas lore.
Setting: a mythic, wintry version of ancient Northern Europe/Britain during the early centuries
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kringle right for my child?
Yes — Kringle is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.9, 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 courage, destiny, hope.
How long does it take to read Kringle?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Kringle takes around 10h to finish. The book has 103,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Kringle have an AR quiz?
Yes — Kringle has an AR quiz available, worth 14 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 Kringle?
Kringle has an AR reading level of 5.9, 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.