The Face-off Phony
Scholastic Canada 2006
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- teamwork
- sportsmanship
- fairness and integrity
- friendship
- perseverance
- standing up for what’s right
- underdogs
- problem-solving
About this book
When the ragtag Mars Health Food Stars battle their way toward the playoffs, Chipmunk suspects the opposing team’s new center is way too old for an elementary league. With no proof—and a reputation for wild schemes—he has to dig up the truth without letting his team down. Fast-paced hockey action, laugh-out-loud moments, and a classic underdog vibe make this a fun read for sports fans. Perfect for middle graders who like comedy, team spirit, and a dash of mystery.
Setting: a youth hockey league in a small Canadian town and community rinks
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Face-off Phony right for my child?
Yes — The Face-off Phony is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4, which is typical for 4th 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, sportsmanship, fairness and integrity.
How long does it take to read The Face-off Phony?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, The Face-off Phony takes around 1.9h to finish. The book has 17,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Face-off Phony have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Face-off Phony has an AR quiz available, worth 2 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 Face-off Phony?
The Face-off Phony has an AR reading level of 4, which places it at a 4th 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.