Where Things Come Back
Simon and Schuster 2012
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.8 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- grief and loss
- brotherhood and family
- coming of age
- identity and purpose
- small-town life
- hope and resilience
- obsession and media frenzy
- faith and doubt
About this book
In the small town of Lily, Arkansas, seventeen-year-old Cullen Witter watches his world tilt after a supposed sighting of an extinct woodpecker sparks a media frenzy—and then his younger brother suddenly disappears. Told with dark humor and a keen eye for small-town detail, the story follows Cullen’s search for answers and meaning amid grief and uncertainty. Thoughtful teens who like literary, character-driven mysteries will be drawn to its voice and layered storytelling. It’s a compelling read for readers who enjoy realistic fiction that blends wit, heart, and hope.
Setting: Lily, a small town in Arkansas; contemporary United States
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Where Things Come Back right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Where Things Come Back. The reading level is AR 4.8, 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 grief and loss, brotherhood and family, coming of age.
How long does it take to read Where Things Come Back?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Where Things Come Back takes around 7.7h to finish. The book has 69,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Where Things Come Back have an AR quiz?
Yes — Where Things Come Back has an AR quiz available, worth 10 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 Where Things Come Back?
Where Things Come Back has an AR reading level of 4.8, 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.