Lisa, Bright and Dark
by John Neufeld
Open Road Media 2016
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5.1 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- mental health
- friendship
- advocacy
- stigma
- courage
- loyalty
- coming of age
- resilience
About this book
When bright, popular Lisa begins showing signs that something is seriously wrong, three of her classmates band together to get her the help adults seem unwilling to provide. Told through the eyes of her friends, the story explores how mental illness ripples through a teen’s world and tests loyalty and courage. Readers are drawn in by the suspense of whether the girls’ efforts will make a difference and the honesty of friendships under pressure. A powerful, accessible read for mature middle schoolers and high schoolers.
Setting: a suburban American town, late 1960s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lisa, Bright and Dark right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Lisa, Bright and Dark. The reading level is AR 5.1, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include mental health, friendship, advocacy.
How long does it take to read Lisa, Bright and Dark?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Lisa, Bright and Dark takes around 3.9h to finish. The book has 39,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Lisa, Bright and Dark have an AR quiz?
Yes — Lisa, Bright and Dark has an AR quiz available, worth 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 Lisa, Bright and Dark?
Lisa, Bright and Dark has an AR reading level of 5.1, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — 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.