Run for your life
by Marilyn Levy
Puffin 1996
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.8 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- perseverance
- self-discovery
- friendship
- family dynamics
- resilience
- competition and teamwork
- identity
- overcoming fear
About this book
A determined teen discovers that running is more than a sport—it’s her way to cope with big changes at home and the pressures of starting over. As she joins the school team, new friendships and fierce competition push her to test her limits. When trouble off the track threatens her sense of safety, she must find the courage to stand up for herself and keep moving forward. Fast-paced and relatable, this story appeals to readers who enjoy sports, realistic challenges, and resilient characters.
Setting: contemporary suburban United States, mid-1990s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Run for your life right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Run for your life. The reading level is AR 4.8, which is typical for 4th 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 perseverance, self-discovery, friendship.
How long does it take to read Run for your life?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Run for your life takes around 6.5h to finish. The book has 58,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Run for your life have an AR quiz?
Yes — Run for your life 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 Run for your life?
Run for your life has an AR reading level of 4.8, which places it at a 4th 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.