Wilder Boys
by Brandon Wallace
Simon and Schuster 2017
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- survival
- brotherhood
- family loyalty
- courage
- resilience
- wilderness skills
- hope
- escape and journey
About this book
Thirteen-year-old Jake and his eleven-year-old brother, Taylor, run from an abusive situation and set out from suburban Pittsburgh to the wilds of Wyoming to find the dad they haven’t seen in years. Armed with basic outdoor know-how and a few supplies, they face fast-changing weather, scarce food, and people who aren’t always what they seem. Action, heart, and practical wilderness tips keep pages turning as the boys rely on each other to survive. Perfect for adventure fans who like survival stories with real-world stakes and strong sibling bonds.
Setting: from the suburbs of Pittsburgh across the American heartland to the wilderness of Wyoming
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wilder Boys right for my child?
Yes — Wilder Boys is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5, 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 survival, brotherhood, family loyalty.
How long does it take to read Wilder Boys?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Wilder Boys takes around 5.5h to finish. The book has 54,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Wilder Boys have an AR quiz?
Yes — Wilder Boys has an AR quiz available, worth 8 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 Wilder Boys?
Wilder Boys has an AR reading level of 5, 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.