On the Far Side of the Mountain
Recorded Books 1990
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- survival
- independence
- sibling bonds
- self-reliance
- friendship
- nature and conservation
- perseverance
- problem-solving
About this book
In this sequel to My Side of the Mountain, Sam Gribley is living independently in the Catskills when a sudden change sends him on a trek across the mountains. Guided by his wilderness skills and clues left behind, he teams up with friends to navigate forests, streams, and small towns. Readers get a blend of outdoor adventure, nature lore, and problem-solving. It’s a great pick for middle-grade readers who love survival stories and the call of the wild.
Setting: Catskill Mountains, New York, contemporary (late 20th century)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is On the Far Side of the Mountain right for my child?
Yes — On the Far Side of the Mountain is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.3, 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 survival, independence, sibling bonds.
How long does it take to read On the Far Side of the Mountain?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, On the Far Side of the Mountain takes around 5.2h to finish. The book has 51,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does On the Far Side of the Mountain have an AR quiz?
Yes — On the Far Side of the Mountain has an AR quiz available, worth 6 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 On the Far Side of the Mountain?
On the Far Side of the Mountain has an AR reading level of 5.3, 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.