Shipwreck season
by Donna Hill
Clarion Books 1998
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.7 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- courage
- coming of age
- duty and service
- family bonds
- man vs. nature
- teamwork
- resilience
- community
About this book
Set on the storm-battered New England coast, this historical novel follows a young teen who spends a season at a U.S. Life-Saving Service station. As winter gales bring dangerous wrecks, he learns the rigors of seaside rescue work, the strength of teamwork, and what real courage looks like. Rich period details and high-stakes rescues keep readers turning pages. A strong choice for middle schoolers who enjoy sea adventures, history, and coming-of-age stories.
Setting: New England coast (Cape Cod), late 19th century, at a U.S. Life-Saving Service station during winter
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shipwreck season right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Shipwreck season. The reading level is AR 5.7, which is typical for 5th 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 courage, coming of age, duty and service.
How long does it take to read Shipwreck season?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Shipwreck season takes around 6.0h to finish. The book has 59,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Shipwreck season have an AR quiz?
Yes — Shipwreck season 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 Shipwreck season?
Shipwreck season has an AR reading level of 5.7, which places it at a 5th 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.