The Ice-cold Case
Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books 1998
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.1 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- teamwork and brotherhood
- justice
- perseverance
- crime and investigation
- courage under pressure
- deception and trust
- problem-solving
About this book
A string of sophisticated home burglaries puts Bayport on edge, and Frank and Joe Hardy are on the trail of thieves who always seem one step ahead. When the brothers get close, the culprits hit back hard, turning a cold case dangerously hot. Fast-paced chases, gadgets, and classic clue-hunting keep the pages turning as the Hardys connect a years-long pattern of crimes. Perfect for upper–middle grade mystery fans who like action, puzzles, and brotherly teamwork.
Setting: Bayport and nearby Northeastern towns, present day winter
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Ice-cold Case right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Ice-cold Case. The reading level is AR 5.1, 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 teamwork and brotherhood, justice, perseverance.
How long does it take to read The Ice-cold Case?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Ice-cold Case takes around 5.0h to finish. The book has 50,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Ice-cold Case have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Ice-cold Case 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 Ice-cold Case?
The Ice-cold Case has an AR reading level of 5.1, 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.