Starters
by Lissa Price
Random House Digital, Inc. 2012
Book 1 of Starters
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5.2 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- identity
- survival
- body autonomy
- ethics of technology
- family and loyalty
- class inequality
- trust and betrayal
- power and control
About this book
In a near-future Los Angeles, sixteen-year-old Callie rents out her body to wealthy seniors who want to feel young again. The glamorous paychecks could keep her and her little brother safe—until she discovers one renter plans to use her body for something deadly. Fast-paced and twisty, this sci-fi thriller explores big what-ifs about technology, identity, and trust. Great for teens who like high-stakes suspense and dystopian worlds.
Setting: near-future Beverly Hills/Los Angeles after a devastating pandemic
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Starters right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Starters. The reading level is AR 5.2, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include identity, survival, body autonomy.
How long does it take to read Starters?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Starters takes around 9.0h to finish. The book has 89,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Starters have an AR quiz?
Yes — Starters has an AR quiz available, worth 13 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 Starters?
Starters has an AR reading level of 5.2, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — 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.