The Runaway Summer of Davie Shaw
by Mario Puzo
Puffin 1979
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- independence
- family
- friendship
- courage
- city life
- responsibility
- self-discovery
About this book
When 12-year-old Davie Shaw decides he’s had enough of being told what to do, he bolts for a summer on his own and learns how tricky independence can be. Navigating big-city streets, close calls, and unexpected friendships, Davie discovers what courage and responsibility really look like. Readers get an atmospheric slice of late-1970s city life and a fast-paced, character-driven adventure. Perfect for middle-graders who enjoy realistic adventures with heart and a touch of suspense.
Setting: New York City in the late 1970s, over one summer
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Runaway Summer of Davie Shaw right for my child?
Yes — The Runaway Summer of Davie Shaw is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.9, 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 independence, family, friendship.
How long does it take to read The Runaway Summer of Davie Shaw?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, The Runaway Summer of Davie Shaw takes around 3.1h to finish. The book has 28,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Runaway Summer of Davie Shaw have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Runaway Summer of Davie Shaw has an AR quiz available, worth 3 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 Runaway Summer of Davie Shaw?
The Runaway Summer of Davie Shaw has an AR reading level of 4.9, 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.