Track of the Zombie
Angus & Robertson 1986
The Hardy Boys
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- brotherhood
- courage
- truth vs. superstition
- teamwork
- justice
- perseverance
- crime and deception
- investigation
About this book
Frank and Joe Hardy chase a chilling mystery after reports of a ‘zombie’ start scaring people away from a key witness and a hidden crime. What begins as a creepy legend soon unravels into a fast-moving case of sabotage and smuggling that only sharp detective work can crack. Action, gadgets, and close calls keep the pages turning as the brothers separate myth from reality. A great pick for middle-grade readers who like high-stakes mysteries with a spooky hook.
Setting: coastal towns and bayous in the American South, 1980s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Track of the Zombie right for my child?
Yes — Track of the Zombie is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.2, which is typical for 5th 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 brotherhood, courage, truth vs. superstition.
How long does it take to read Track of the Zombie?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Track of the Zombie takes around 4.3h to finish. The book has 42,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Track of the Zombie have an AR quiz?
Yes — Track of the Zombie has an AR quiz available, worth 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 Track of the Zombie?
Track of the Zombie has an AR reading level of 5.2, which places it at a 5th 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.