The Cardturner
by Louis Sachar
Ember 2011
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5.9 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- family dynamics
- mentorship
- greed and inheritance
- identity and self-discovery
- integrity
- disability and accessibility
- strategy and logic
- friendship
About this book
After a rough start to summer, high-school junior Alton is forced to chauffeur his ailing, blind, and very wealthy great-uncle to bridge games—and turn the cards for him. What begins as a tedious chore becomes a surprising education in strategy, memory, and trust as Alton learns the language and logic of bridge and the complicated dynamics of family. With Sachar’s wit and warmth, the story blends puzzles and relationships in a way that engages thoughtful teens. Readers who enjoy clever problem-solving and character-driven stories will find this an unexpected page-turner.
Setting: contemporary suburban United States; bridge clubs, hospitals, and family homes over one summer
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Cardturner right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Cardturner. The reading level is AR 5.9, 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 family dynamics, mentorship, greed and inheritance.
How long does it take to read The Cardturner?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Cardturner takes around 8.0h to finish. The book has 79,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Cardturner have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Cardturner has an AR quiz available, worth 12 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 Cardturner?
The Cardturner has an AR reading level of 5.9, 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.