To Kill a Mockingbird
by Harper Lee
Random House Audiobooks 1960
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5.6 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Themes include prejudice and racism
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Genre
Themes
- prejudice and racism
- justice and injustice
- moral courage
- empathy and compassion
- coming of age
- family and community
- integrity
About this book
Set in a small Alabama town during the 1930s, this classic is told through the eyes of Scout Finch as she and her brother Jem navigate childhood curiosities and hard lessons about right and wrong. Their father, Atticus, is a lawyer who stands up for justice, challenging the prejudice that shapes their community. The novel blends warmth, humor, and suspense as Scout learns empathy and courage. It’s a powerful read for teens ready to think deeply about fairness, compassion, and growing up.
Setting: Maycomb, a small town in Alabama, during the Great Depression (1930s)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is To Kill a Mockingbird right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for To Kill a Mockingbird. The reading level is AR 5.6, which is typical for 5th 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 prejudice and racism, justice and injustice, moral courage.
How long does it take to read To Kill a Mockingbird?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, To Kill a Mockingbird takes around 10h to finish. The book has 99,121 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does To Kill a Mockingbird have an AR quiz?
Yes — To Kill a Mockingbird has an AR quiz available, worth 15 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 Kill a Mockingbird?
To Kill a Mockingbird has an AR reading level of 5.6, which places it at a 5th 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.