Swimming with Sharks
by Hicks, Betty.
Roaring Brook Press 2008
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- teamwork
- sportsmanship
- friendship
- rivalry and competition
- integrity
- perseverance
- identity
- belonging
About this book
A dedicated young swimmer navigates the ups and downs of life on a competitive team—early practices, fierce meets, and friendships that can feel as tricky as a flip turn. When rivalries heat up and rumors start to swirl, doing the right thing becomes harder than winning a race. Readers get an inside look at team dynamics, coaching, and the thrill of chasing personal bests. Perfect for middle-grade athletes and sport-story fans who like fast-paced, realistic fiction with heart.
Setting: contemporary suburban community, swim club and middle school
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Swimming with Sharks right for my child?
Yes — Swimming with Sharks is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.7, which is typical for 4th 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, sportsmanship, friendship.
How long does it take to read Swimming with Sharks?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Swimming with Sharks takes around 5.3h to finish. The book has 48,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Swimming with Sharks have an AR quiz?
Yes — Swimming with Sharks 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 Swimming with Sharks?
Swimming with Sharks has an AR reading level of 4.7, which places it at a 4th 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.