Watership Down
by Richard Adams
Penguin UK 1973
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 6.2 (6th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- survival
- leadership
- freedom
- friendship and loyalty
- community
- courage
- tyranny vs. self-determination
- nature vs. human encroachment
About this book
A band of rabbits escapes their threatened warren and undertakes a perilous journey across the English countryside in search of a safe new home. Led by the thoughtful Hazel and guided by Fiver’s unsettling visions, they face predators, harsh weather, and rival warrens. Rich world-building, rabbit folklore, and vivid nature writing make this an immersive adventure. Best for strong readers who enjoy epic quests, animal stories, and tales of leadership and community.
Setting: the downs of southern England (Berkshire/Hampshire), mid-20th century rural countryside
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Watership Down right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Watership Down. The reading level is AR 6.2, which is typical for 6th 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 survival, leadership, freedom.
How long does it take to read Watership Down?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Watership Down takes around 15h to finish. The book has 156,154 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Watership Down have an AR quiz?
Yes — Watership Down has an AR quiz available, worth 25 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 Watership Down?
Watership Down has an AR reading level of 6.2, which places it at a 6th 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.