
McMummy
Tandem Library 1993
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- curiosity
- friendship
- bravery
- facing fears
- problem-solving
- rumors vs. reality
- loyalty
- family
About this book
When a curious kid and his friend start investigating a strange neighbor and a rumored "mummy," their summer turns into a funny, slightly spooky mystery. As clues pile up, they have to be brave, think fast, and decide whom to trust. Betsy Byars blends humor, suspense, and believable kids’ voices in a page-turner that’s never too scary. Great for middle-grade readers who like light chills, quirky characters, and satisfying sleuthing.
Setting: contemporary small-town neighborhood and a mysterious old house/lab
Frequently Asked Questions
Is McMummy right for my child?
Yes — McMummy 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 curiosity, friendship, bravery.
How long does it take to read McMummy?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, McMummy takes around 2.7h to finish. The book has 24,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does McMummy have an AR quiz?
Yes — McMummy has an AR quiz available, worth 3 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 McMummy?
McMummy 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.