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Spark of Suspicion book cover

Spark of Suspicion

by Franklin W. Dixon

Bt Bound 2001

Great fit for 5th grade

Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14

5th grade English
127
Pages
4
AR Points
3.2h
Read time
AR Quiz Available

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Genre

Mystery

Themes

  • teamwork
  • brotherhood
  • justice
  • perseverance
  • crime and sabotage
  • problem-solving
  • community safety
  • technology

About this book

Frank and Joe Hardy jump into action when a series of suspicious electrical fires threatens Bayport. Following a trail of clues through workshops and industrial sites, the brothers uncover sabotage and a plot that’s about to spark bigger trouble. Short chapters, steady suspense, and classic Hardy teamwork make this a fast, fun read. Great for mystery fans in upper elementary and middle school who like sleuthing, gadgets, and nonstop action.

Setting: Bayport and nearby industrial sites

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Spark of Suspicion right for my child?

Yes — Spark of Suspicion is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.1, which is typical for 5th 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 teamwork, brotherhood, justice.

How long does it take to read Spark of Suspicion?

At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Spark of Suspicion takes around 3.2h to finish. The book has 32,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.

Does Spark of Suspicion have an AR quiz?

Yes — Spark of Suspicion has an AR quiz available, worth 4 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 Spark of Suspicion?

Spark of Suspicion has an AR reading level of 5.1, which places it at a 5th 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.