The Invasion
2011
Easy read — content targets 4th–8th grade
Reading level 3.7 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- courage
- identity
- good vs. evil
- teamwork
- secrecy
- responsibility
- resistance
About this book
When five friends witness a crash and meet a dying alien, they’re given an incredible power: the ability to morph into any animal they touch. Suddenly they’re pulled into a hidden battle and must use their new abilities to stay one step ahead of a secret alien threat. Fast-paced and full of cliffhangers, this series opener blends action, humor, and heart. It’s great for middle-grade readers who like team adventures, animals, and high-stakes sci‑fi.
Setting: contemporary American suburb and school; Earth under a covert alien threat
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Invasion right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Invasion. The reading level is AR 3.7, which is typical for 3rd 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 friendship, courage, identity.
How long does it take to read The Invasion?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, The Invasion takes around 4.0h to finish. The book has 32,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Invasion have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Invasion has an AR quiz available, worth 5 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 Invasion?
The Invasion has an AR reading level of 3.7, which places it at a 3rd 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.