Running on the Cracks
Macmillan 2009
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.6 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
Themes include abuse and healing
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Genre
Themes
- runaways and survival
- found family
- identity and heritage
- trust and betrayal
- resilience
- abuse and healing
- friendship
- search for belonging
About this book
Fifteen-year-old Leo runs away to Glasgow to escape a dangerous home situation and to search for the grandparents she’s never met. On the streets she crosses paths with Finlay and a band of quirky, big-hearted strangers who offer help in surprising ways. As Leo follows clues to her past, someone from her old life is closing in, turning her search into a tense race. Readers who enjoy realistic, fast-paced stories about resilience, found family, and identity will be hooked.
Setting: contemporary Glasgow, Scotland
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Running on the Cracks right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Running on the Cracks. The reading level is AR 4.6, 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 runaways and survival, found family, identity and heritage.
How long does it take to read Running on the Cracks?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Running on the Cracks takes around 6.9h to finish. The book has 62,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Running on the Cracks have an AR quiz?
Yes — Running on the Cracks has an AR quiz available, worth 9 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 Running on the Cracks?
Running on the Cracks has an AR reading level of 4.6, 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.