Mary Shelley's Frankenstein
by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley, Alice Schick, Joel Schick
1980
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- ethics of science
- responsibility and consequences
- ambition
- isolation and belonging
- prejudice and empathy
- identity
- guilt and redemption
About this book
This illustrated retelling introduces young readers to the classic tale of a scientist whose daring experiment creates a being he cannot control. Told in clear, accessible language, it keeps the spooky tension while focusing on big questions about responsibility and choices. Short chapters and supportive artwork make it a good bridge to longer classics. Ideal for grades 3–6 who enjoy mysteries, monsters, and atmospheric adventures.
Setting: 18th–19th century Europe, from Geneva and the Swiss Alps to university laboratories and the Arctic
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mary Shelley's Frankenstein right for my child?
Yes — Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.2, which is typical for 4th 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 ethics of science, responsibility and consequences, ambition.
How long does it take to read Mary Shelley's Frankenstein?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Mary Shelley's Frankenstein takes around 52m to finish. The book has 7,800 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Mary Shelley's Frankenstein have an AR quiz?
Yes — Mary Shelley's Frankenstein has an AR quiz available, worth 1 point. 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 Mary Shelley's Frankenstein?
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein has an AR reading level of 4.2, which places it at a 4th 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.