The Midnight Brigade
by Adam Borba
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers 2021
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- finding your voice
- courage
- family relationships
- community
- secrets and mysteries
- acceptance
- identity
About this book
Carl wants to speak up—about his dad’s struggling food truck, about a new friend, and about the strange creatures he suspects are hiding around Pittsburgh. When he discovers a secret group called the Midnight Brigade, he finally has a chance to be brave. This warm, funny adventure blends real-life worries with a touch of monster magic. It’s a great pick for readers who enjoy heartfelt friendships, city mysteries, and finding the courage to use their voice.
Setting: modern-day Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Midnight Brigade right for my child?
Yes — The Midnight Brigade is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.7, 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 friendship, finding your voice, courage.
How long does it take to read The Midnight Brigade?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, The Midnight Brigade takes around 4.9h to finish. The book has 44,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Midnight Brigade have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Midnight Brigade 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 Midnight Brigade?
The Midnight Brigade has an AR reading level of 4.7, 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.