Quest for a maid
by Frances Hendry
Farrar Straus Giroux 2001
Great fit for 6th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- loyalty
- power and ambition
- family bonds
- courage
- betrayal
- political intrigue
- fate vs. choice
- superstition and folklore
About this book
Set in medieval Scotland after the king’s sudden death, a clear-eyed girl is pulled into dangerous political intrigue when her ambitious older sister’s powers set events in motion. As rival factions vie for control of the realm and the fate of the young Maid of Norway, the heroine undertakes a perilous sea journey and must decide where her loyalties lie. Rich historical detail, suspense, and a hint of folklore make this a gripping read for strong middle schoolers and young teens. Readers who enjoy brave protagonists and castle-and-ship adventure will be hooked.
Setting: late 13th-century Scotland and Norway; castles, ports, and the North Sea
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Quest for a maid right for my child?
Yes — Quest for a maid is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6.2, which is typical for 6th 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 loyalty, power and ambition, family bonds.
How long does it take to read Quest for a maid?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Quest for a maid takes around 6.8h to finish. The book has 72,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Quest for a maid have an AR quiz?
Yes — Quest for a maid has an AR quiz available, worth 10 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 Quest for a maid?
Quest for a maid has an AR reading level of 6.2, which places it at a 6th 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.