The Maze of Bones (The 39 Clues, Book 1)
by Rick Riordan
Scholastic Inc. 2011
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- family
- teamwork
- trust and betrayal
- identity and legacy
- courage
- competition
- problem-solving
- adventure
About this book
When their grandmother dies, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill are offered a life-changing choice: take a fortune or join a high-stakes hunt for the first of 39 clues tied to their powerful family’s past. The decision launches them into a fast-paced, globe-trotting mystery filled with secret histories, codes, and close calls. With rivals around every corner, the pair must learn to trust each other and think on their feet. Perfect for middle-grade readers who love puzzles, action, and history woven into an adventurous story.
Setting: modern-day global scavenger hunt across major world cities (begins in the U.S., then Europe)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Maze of Bones (The 39 Clues, Book 1) right for my child?
Yes — The Maze of Bones (The 39 Clues, Book 1) is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.3, 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 family, teamwork, trust and betrayal.
How long does it take to read The Maze of Bones (The 39 Clues, Book 1)?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, The Maze of Bones (The 39 Clues, Book 1) takes around 6.1h to finish. The book has 55,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Maze of Bones (The 39 Clues, Book 1) have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Maze of Bones (The 39 Clues, Book 1) has an AR quiz available, worth 7 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 Maze of Bones (The 39 Clues, Book 1)?
The Maze of Bones (The 39 Clues, Book 1) has an AR reading level of 4.3, 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.