To catch a mugger
by Margaret Scariano
Academic Therapy Publications 1982
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 2.8 (2nd grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- courage
- justice
- responsibility
- community and safety
- peer support
- doing the right thing
About this book
When a teen witnesses a street mugging, fear turns into determination to help stop the thief. Short chapters and everyday language make this a fast, accessible read for reluctant and emerging readers. The story focuses on making smart choices, seeking help, and standing up for what’s right without taking unnecessary risks. Ideal for middle and high school students who enjoy realistic, high-stakes situations with a quick pace.
Setting: a contemporary urban neighborhood (1980s city)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is To catch a mugger right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for To catch a mugger. The reading level is AR 2.8, which is typical for 2nd 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 courage, justice, responsibility.
How long does it take to read To catch a mugger?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, To catch a mugger takes around 42m to finish. The book has 5,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does To catch a mugger have an AR quiz?
Yes — To catch a mugger has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 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 To catch a mugger?
To catch a mugger has an AR reading level of 2.8, which places it at a 2nd 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.