Shark Life
by Karen Wojtyla, Peter Benchley
Yearling 2008
Great fit for 7th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- ocean conservation
- respect for wildlife
- adventure
- science and exploration
- overcoming fear
- survival
- human vs. nature
About this book
Written by Peter Benchley, the author of Jaws, this nonfiction book shares true stories from his encounters with sharks and other sea creatures. Benchley mixes exciting adventures with practical information about how sharks really behave and how people can stay safe in the ocean. He also highlights the importance of protecting marine life and caring for our seas. Ideal for curious readers who like real-life adventure, animals, and science.
Setting: oceans around the world—reefs, coasts, and open water
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shark Life right for my child?
Yes — Shark Life is a great fit for 7th grade. The reading level is AR 7.3, which is typical for 7th 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 ocean conservation, respect for wildlife, adventure.
How long does it take to read Shark Life?
At a typical 7th grade reading pace, Shark Life takes around 4.6h to finish. The book has 48,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Shark Life have an AR quiz?
Yes — Shark Life 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 Shark Life?
Shark Life has an AR reading level of 7.3, which places it at a 7th 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.