Reality Boy
by A.S. King
Penguin 2024
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.8 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Themes include trauma and healing
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- trauma and healing
- anger management
- family dysfunction
- media and privacy
- first love
- resilience
- self-acceptance
About this book
Gerald Faust grew up on a reality TV show that turned his worst moments into national entertainment, and the label it gave him still follows him everywhere. Now a teen with a short fuse and a reputation he can’t shake, he’s trying to figure out who he really is beyond the cameras and the anger. When he connects with a girl who understands what it means to feel trapped, he starts to imagine a future he can choose for himself. Honest and intense, this is a powerful read for older teens who like raw, character-driven stories about identity, healing, and finding your voice.
Setting: contemporary small-town Pennsylvania; high school and home life, with scenes at a local concession stand/arena
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Reality Boy right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Reality Boy. The reading level is AR 4.8, 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 identity, trauma and healing, anger management.
How long does it take to read Reality Boy?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Reality Boy takes around 9.8h to finish. The book has 88,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Reality Boy have an AR quiz?
Yes — Reality Boy 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 Reality Boy?
Reality Boy has an AR reading level of 4.8, 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.