Runaway
by Paul Kropp
EMC Pub. 1982
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 3.7 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- family conflict
- independence
- survival
- homelessness and street life
- trust and loyalty
- choices and consequences
- resilience
- hope
About this book
After a blowup at home, a teenage boy runs away to the city expecting freedom but finds the streets far tougher than he imagined. He meets other kids trying to survive, navigates shelters, and must decide whom to trust and how to stay safe. The short chapters and straightforward style make it a strong pick for reluctant and developing readers. It’s a realistic, fast-paced story about family, independence, and finding help when you need it.
Setting: urban Canada (likely Toronto), early 1980s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Runaway right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Runaway. The reading level is AR 3.7, which is typical for 3rd 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 family conflict, independence, survival.
How long does it take to read Runaway?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Runaway takes around 2.1h to finish. The book has 17,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Runaway have an AR quiz?
Yes — Runaway has an AR quiz available, worth 2 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 Runaway?
Runaway has an AR reading level of 3.7, which places it at a 3rd 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.