Of Salt and Shore
by Annet Schaap
Charlesbridge Publishing 2020
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- courage
- identity
- prejudice and acceptance
- loss and healing
- secrets and truth
- freedom vs. duty
- belonging
About this book
Lampie, the lighthouse keeper’s daughter, makes a terrible mistake on a stormy night and is sent to work off her debt at the Admiral’s eerie house, where a monster is said to live. Inside, she discovers secrets, unexpected friendships, and the courage to face what others fear. This lyrical, fairytale-like adventure blends mystery and magic with a strong emotional core. Perfect for thoughtful middle-grade readers who enjoy atmospheric stories, sea settings, and brave, big-hearted heroes.
Setting: a windswept seaside town, a lighthouse, and a reclusive Admiral’s mansion
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Of Salt and Shore right for my child?
Yes — Of Salt and Shore is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.7, 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 friendship, courage, identity.
How long does it take to read Of Salt and Shore?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Of Salt and Shore takes around 9.6h to finish. The book has 95,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Of Salt and Shore have an AR quiz?
Yes — Of Salt and Shore has an AR quiz available, worth 13 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 Of Salt and Shore?
Of Salt and Shore has an AR reading level of 5.7, 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.