Smile and say murder
Simon & Schuster, Limited 1986
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.1 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- mystery and investigation
- truth vs. image
- courage under pressure
- friendship and teamwork
- jealousy and ambition
- deception
- media and celebrity culture
About this book
Nancy Drew goes undercover at a glossy magazine after a string of threats turns deadly in the high-pressure world of photography and celebrity profiles. As Nancy navigates cutthroat office politics, glamorous photo shoots, and suspicious staffers, she must separate image from truth to catch a killer. Fast-paced action, clues, and close calls keep readers turning pages. Perfect for mystery-loving tweens and young teens who enjoy smart sleuths and big-city intrigue.
Setting: New York City magazine offices and photo studios, 1980s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Smile and say murder right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Smile and say murder. The reading level is AR 5.1, 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 mystery and investigation, truth vs. image, courage under pressure.
How long does it take to read Smile and say murder?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Smile and say murder takes around 4.5h to finish. The book has 45,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Smile and say murder have an AR quiz?
Yes — Smile and say murder has an AR quiz available, worth 5 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 Smile and say murder?
Smile and say murder has an AR reading level of 5.1, 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.