Rise of the Evening Star
by Brandon Mull
Random House 2026
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- bravery
- family bonds
- trust and betrayal
- responsibility
- temptation and choices
- good vs. evil
- teamwork
- resourcefulness
About this book
In the second Fablehaven adventure, siblings Kendra and Seth return to the hidden preserve for magical creatures just as a new and cunning threat begins to rise. Ancient powers, secret alliances, and tricky puzzles test their courage and judgment at every turn. Fast-paced action, curious creatures, and plenty of humor keep readers turning pages. Perfect for middle-grade fantasy fans who like high stakes, teamwork, and clever problem-solving without scary content going too far.
Setting: a hidden sanctuary for magical creatures called Fablehaven in the present-day United States
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rise of the Evening Star right for my child?
Yes — Rise of the Evening Star is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.9, which is typical for 4th 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 bravery, family bonds, trust and betrayal.
How long does it take to read Rise of the Evening Star?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Rise of the Evening Star takes around 15h to finish. The book has 135,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Rise of the Evening Star have an AR quiz?
Yes — Rise of the Evening Star has an AR quiz available, worth 15 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 Rise of the Evening Star?
Rise of the Evening Star has an AR reading level of 4.9, which places it at a 4th 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.