The Midnighters
by Hana Tooke
Penguin 2022
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- courage
- identity and belonging
- science vs. superstition
- mystery and investigation
- family expectations
- grief and healing
About this book
Ema Vašková has always sensed omens and shadows, which doesn’t sit well in her family of celebrated scientists. Sent to stay with her eccentric uncle in Prague, she meets Silvie, a fearless girl who believes in Ema’s unusual gifts. Drawn into a secretive midnight world, the friends face eerie mysteries and a chilling crime that only they may be able to unravel. With gothic atmosphere and heart, this story invites middle-grade readers who enjoy spooky adventures, strong friendships, and a dash of wonder.
Setting: Prague, late 19th century
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Midnighters right for my child?
Yes — The Midnighters is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.7, which is typical for 5th 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 and belonging.
How long does it take to read The Midnighters?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Midnighters takes around 9.1h to finish. The book has 90,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Midnighters have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Midnighters has an AR quiz available, worth 12 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 Midnighters?
The Midnighters has an AR reading level of 5.7, which places it at a 5th 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.