The Ruby Notebook
by Laura Resau
Delacorte Books for Young Readers 2010
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.6 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- first love
- cultural exchange
- self-discovery
- family relationships
- mystery
- independence
- trust
About this book
Sixteen-year-old Zeeta lands in sun-soaked Aix-en-Provence with her free-spirited mother, where a secret admirer begins leaving her cryptic gifts and notes around the city. When her boyfriend from Ecuador visits, Zeeta must sort through shifting feelings while following clues that hint at hidden histories beneath the town’s fountains and markets. Lyrical writing, travel details, and a gentle mystery keep pages turning. Perfect for readers who enjoy romance, self-discovery, and armchair adventures abroad.
Setting: contemporary Aix-en-Provence, France
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Ruby Notebook right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Ruby Notebook. The reading level is AR 5.6, 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 identity, first love, cultural exchange.
How long does it take to read The Ruby Notebook?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Ruby Notebook takes around 9.4h to finish. The book has 93,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Ruby Notebook have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Ruby Notebook has an AR quiz available, worth 14 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 Ruby Notebook?
The Ruby Notebook has an AR reading level of 5.6, 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.