The Call of the Wild
by Jack London
Simon and Schuster 2012
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 8 (8th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- survival
- nature vs. civilization
- instinct and identity
- loyalty and leadership
- freedom
- adaptation
- power and hierarchy
About this book
This classic adventure follows Buck, a powerful dog stolen from a comfortable home and thrust into the harsh world of the Klondike Gold Rush. As he battles brutal conditions and learns the law of club and fang, Buck discovers his instinct for survival and leadership. The story blends action, nature, and an animal’s-eye view that captivates readers. It’s a great pick for strong readers who enjoy wilderness survival, classic literature, and animal protagonists.
Setting: Yukon and Alaska during the Klondike Gold Rush (1890s)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Call of the Wild right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Call of the Wild. The reading level is AR 8, which is typical for 8th 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 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 3.0h to finish. The book has 32,000 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 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 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 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.