Running Out of Time
Bodley Head Children's Books 2023
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- courage
- identity
- truth vs. deception
- freedom vs. control
- family bonds
- survival
- ethics in science
- culture shock
About this book
Jessie has always believed she lives in 1840, until a deadly illness forces her mother to reveal a shocking truth and send her on a dangerous mission for help. Thrust into the modern world, Jessie must navigate unfamiliar technology, outsmart powerful adults, and find the courage to speak up before time runs out. Fast-paced and gripping, this thriller hooks middle-grade readers with big what-if questions and a brave, resourceful heroine. Perfect for kids who like survival stories, twists, and high-stakes adventures.
Setting: a re-created 1840s village in Indiana and the contemporary 1990s United States
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Running Out of Time right for my child?
Yes — Running Out of Time is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.8, 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 courage, identity, truth vs. deception.
How long does it take to read Running Out of Time?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Running Out of Time takes around 5.5h to finish. The book has 49,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Running Out of Time have an AR quiz?
Yes — Running Out of Time has an AR quiz available, worth 7 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 Out of Time?
Running Out of Time has an AR reading level of 4.8, 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.