TRASH
by Sharon Darrow
Candlewick Press 2006
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Themes include abuse and neglect
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Genre
Themes
- poverty
- family bonds
- resilience
- abuse and neglect
- survival
- hope
- identity
- coming of age
About this book
This gritty, lyrical novel in verse follows a teen determined to protect her younger brother while navigating poverty, neglect, and dangerous choices. Told in spare, powerful lines, it captures the fierce love between siblings and the small moments of beauty they cling to. Readers who like realistic, emotionally honest stories will be drawn to the voice and the hope that flickers even in hard times. Best for older teens who can handle mature themes.
Setting: a struggling small-town trailer park, contemporary United States
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is TRASH right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for TRASH. The reading level is AR 4, which is typical for 4th 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 poverty, family bonds, resilience.
How long does it take to read TRASH?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, TRASH takes around 1.7h to finish. The book has 15,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does TRASH have an AR quiz?
Yes — TRASH has an AR quiz available, worth 2 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 TRASH?
TRASH has an AR reading level of 4, which places it at a 4th 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.