Nightmare
1992
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.8 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- truth and justice
- courage
- danger and suspense
- trust and betrayal
- standing up for what’s right
- small-town secrets
- grief and coping
About this book
After a body falls onto Nick’s car from an overpass, the police quickly label it a suicide—but Nick can’t shake the feeling that something is wrong. His questions pull him into a web of secrets and danger as he tries to uncover the truth. This fast-paced suspense novel is great for middle school and early high school readers who like realistic mysteries with high stakes. Short chapters, steady tension, and a relatable teen lead make it a page-turner.
Setting: contemporary American suburb and highways/overpasses
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nightmare right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Nightmare. The reading level is AR 4.8, which is typical for 4th 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 truth and justice, courage, danger and suspense.
How long does it take to read Nightmare?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Nightmare takes around 6.7h to finish. The book has 60,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Nightmare have an AR quiz?
Yes — Nightmare has an AR quiz available, worth 9 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 Nightmare?
Nightmare has an AR reading level of 4.8, which places it at a 4th 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.