The Siren, the Song, and the Spy
Candlewick Press 2023
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 6.2 (6th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- resistance and revolution
- identity and self-discovery
- decolonization
- found family
- loyalty and betrayal
- truth and propaganda
- queer love and representation
- power and oppression
About this book
This companion to The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea follows a diverse band of rebels, spies, and seafarers as they work to bring down a ruthless empire. Magic tied to the ocean, shifting loyalties, and dangerous missions drive a story about freedom, identity, and who gets to tell the truth. Teens who enjoy sweeping worldbuilding, political intrigue, and queer romance will be hooked. Perfect for readers who like smart, character-driven fantasy with high-stakes adventure.
Setting: a colonized island empire and the high seas in a richly imagined fantasy world
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Siren, the Song, and the Spy right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Siren, the Song, and the Spy. The reading level is AR 6.2, which is typical for 6th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include resistance and revolution, identity and self-discovery, decolonization.
How long does it take to read The Siren, the Song, and the Spy?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, The Siren, the Song, and the Spy takes around 9.3h to finish. The book has 98,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Siren, the Song, and the Spy have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Siren, the Song, and the Spy 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 Siren, the Song, and the Spy?
The Siren, the Song, and the Spy has an AR reading level of 6.2, which places it at a 6th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — 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.