The Contest (Everest, Book 1)
Scholastic Inc. 2013
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- competition
- teamwork
- perseverance
- ambition
- survival
- ethics and sportsmanship
- leadership
- media and fame
About this book
A hand-picked group of teen climbers competes to earn a coveted spot on a record-setting expedition to Mount Everest. Grueling training, harsh weather, and fierce rivalries push everyone to their limits before they even reach the mountain. Short, cliffhanger chapters and high-stakes challenges keep readers turning pages. Perfect for middle graders who love adventure, competition, and survival stories.
Setting: modern-day high-altitude training camp and the world of Himalayan mountaineering
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Contest (Everest, Book 1) right for my child?
Yes — The Contest (Everest, Book 1) is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.1, 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 competition, teamwork, perseverance.
How long does it take to read The Contest (Everest, Book 1)?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Contest (Everest, Book 1) takes around 3.0h to finish. The book has 30,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Contest (Everest, Book 1) have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Contest (Everest, Book 1) has an AR quiz available, worth 4 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 Contest (Everest, Book 1)?
The Contest (Everest, Book 1) has an AR reading level of 5.1, 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.