Tentacles
by Roland Smith
Scholastic Press 2009
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- adventure
- courage
- loyalty and friendship
- family secrets and identity
- conservation vs. exploitation
- survival at sea
- mystery and intrigue
About this book
Marty and Grace join cryptozoologist Travis Wolfe on a high-stakes ocean expedition to film a giant squid while keeping rare creatures safe from a ruthless collector. Life aboard the research ship is packed with gadgets, danger, and secret agendas, and the kids must rely on quick thinking and teamwork to stay one step ahead. Fast-paced chapters, cliffhangers, and cool science details make this a favorite for adventure seekers. Perfect for middle-grade readers who love mystery, animals, and high-seas action.
Setting: modern-day voyage aboard a high-tech research ship in the Pacific Ocean
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tentacles right for my child?
Yes — Tentacles is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.3, 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 adventure, courage, loyalty and friendship.
How long does it take to read Tentacles?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Tentacles takes around 7.1h to finish. The book has 70,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Tentacles have an AR quiz?
Yes — Tentacles has an AR quiz available, worth 9 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 Tentacles?
Tentacles has an AR reading level of 5.3, 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.