The Hunted
by Alex Shearer
Pan Macmillan 2005
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.7 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- dystopia
- freedom vs. control
- identity
- survival
- ethical use of science
- inequality and power
- loyalty and found family
- resistance
About this book
In a future where people can live to 150, children are rare—and valuable. Deet wins a boy named Tarrin in a card game and rents him to a childless couple, but as Tarrin grows, the dangers of a world that treats kids like property come sharply into focus. The story blends action with big ethical questions about freedom, family, and what it means to be human. Perfect for readers who enjoy thought‑provoking dystopias with high stakes and heart.
Setting: a near-future society where extended lifespans have made children scarce
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Hunted right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Hunted. The reading level is AR 5.7, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include dystopia, freedom vs. control, identity.
How long does it take to read The Hunted?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Hunted takes around 8.3h to finish. The book has 82,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Hunted have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Hunted 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 Hunted?
The Hunted has an AR reading level of 5.7, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — 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.