The Call of the Wild
by Jack London
Courier Corporation 1990
Great fit for 8th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- survival
- nature vs. civilization
- instinct and identity
- loyalty
- leadership
- freedom
- man vs. nature
- adaptation
About this book
This classic adventure follows Buck, a powerful ranch dog stolen from his California home and thrust into the harsh world of sled teams during the Klondike Gold Rush. As Buck battles the elements, rival dogs, and ruthless men, he learns to survive—and to listen to the pull of his instincts. Jack London’s vivid wilderness scenes and fast-paced action keep readers turning pages. Ideal for strong middle school readers and up who enjoy survival stories, animal heroes, and rugged adventures.
Setting: Yukon and Alaska during the Klondike Gold Rush (1890s)
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Call of the Wild right for my child?
Yes — The Call of the Wild is a great fit for 8th grade. The reading level is AR 8, which is typical for 8th 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 survival, nature vs. civilization, instinct and identity.
How long does it take to read The Call of the Wild?
At a typical 8th grade reading pace, The Call of the Wild takes around 2.6h to finish. The book has 27,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Call of the Wild have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Call of the Wild has an AR quiz available, worth 7 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 The Call of the Wild?
The Call of the Wild has an AR reading level of 8, which places it at a 8th 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.