Tunnel of Secrets
Simon and Schuster 2015
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- brotherhood
- teamwork
- courage
- urban exploration
- crime and justice
- resourcefulness
- loyalty
- problem-solving
About this book
When a sinkhole swallows a historic statue in Bayport, Frank and Joe Hardy follow the clues into a network of caves and forgotten tunnels. Their urban exploration uncovers an abandoned underground city—and a secretive group using it for criminal plans. With Frank’s investigative eye and Joe’s thrill-seeking nerve, the brothers race to expose the plot before danger erupts aboveground. Fast-paced and full of puzzles, this Hardy Boys adventure hooks mystery fans who like teamwork, gadgets, and high-stakes sleuthing.
Setting: Contemporary Bayport and a network of underground tunnels and an abandoned subterranean city
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tunnel of Secrets right for my child?
Yes — Tunnel of Secrets is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.1, 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, teamwork, courage.
How long does it take to read Tunnel of Secrets?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Tunnel of Secrets takes around 3.3h to finish. The book has 33,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Tunnel of Secrets have an AR quiz?
Yes — Tunnel of Secrets 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 Tunnel of Secrets?
Tunnel of Secrets has an AR reading level of 5.1, 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.