The Lost Year
A Survival Story of the Ukrainian Famine (National Book Award Finalist)
Roaring Brook Press 2023
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
- family secrets
- survival
- truth vs. propaganda
- courage
- resilience
- intergenerational memory
- identity
- history and remembrance
About this book
During the COVID lockdown, 13-year-old Matthew discovers an old photograph that sends him digging into his great-grandmother’s past. His search uncovers a hidden family history tied to the Holodomor, the man-made famine that devastated Soviet Ukraine in the 1930s. Told in interwoven timelines, the story explores how secrets, courage, and the truth can shape who we are. Readers who enjoy gripping historical mysteries and family stories will be drawn to its suspense and heart.
Setting: suburban New Jersey during the 2020 pandemic and Soviet Ukraine during the Holodomor (1932–1933)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Lost Year right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Lost Year. 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 family secrets, survival, truth vs. propaganda.
How long does it take to read The Lost Year?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Lost Year takes around 7.1h to finish. The book has 70,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Lost Year have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Lost Year has an AR quiz available, worth 10 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 Lost Year?
The Lost Year 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.