Rash
by Pete Hautman
Thorndike Press 2006
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.9 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- freedom vs. security
- individuality and conformity
- risk and consequences
- anger and self-control
- corporate power
- satire of modern society
- teamwork and sportsmanship
About this book
In a near-future America obsessed with safety, 16-year-old Bo Marsten is punished for a minor outburst and shipped off to a corporate-run work camp in the Canadian tundra. There, he discovers that playing an illegal, rough-and-tumble version of football might be his ticket to survival—and maybe something more. Fast-paced and sharply funny, this dystopian satire explores what happens when society values safety over freedom. Great for teens who like thought-provoking what-ifs, sports action, and smart humor.
Setting: near-future United Safer States of America and a Canadian work camp
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rash right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Rash. The reading level is AR 4.9, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include freedom vs. security, individuality and conformity, risk and consequences.
How long does it take to read Rash?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Rash takes around 9.0h to finish. The book has 81,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Rash have an AR quiz?
Yes — Rash has an AR quiz available, worth 8 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 Rash?
Rash has an AR reading level of 4.9, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — 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.