The Clue of the Broken Blade
1985
The Hardy Boys
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- teamwork
- courage
- perseverance
- justice
- family support
- problem-solving
- deception and crime
- loyalty
About this book
Frank and Joe Hardy investigate the theft of a champion fencer’s prized sword, where a shattered blade may hide the key clue. Their search leads from quiet Bayport into a wider web of suspects, secret hideouts, and daring chases. This fast-paced mystery suits middle-grade readers who enjoy classic whodunits with plenty of action and clean suspense. Fans love the brotherly teamwork, clever deductions, and satisfying twists without anything too scary.
Setting: Bayport and a cross-country pursuit in mid-20th-century America
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Clue of the Broken Blade right for my child?
Yes — The Clue of the Broken Blade is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.6, 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 teamwork, courage, perseverance.
How long does it take to read The Clue of the Broken Blade?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Clue of the Broken Blade takes around 4.5h to finish. The book has 45,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Clue of the Broken Blade have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Clue of the Broken Blade has an AR quiz available, worth 6 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 Clue of the Broken Blade?
The Clue of the Broken Blade has an AR reading level of 5.6, 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.