Wrecker
by Carl Hiaasen
Yearling 2024
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- environmental conservation
- courage
- justice vs. wrongdoing
- family and legacy
- resourcefulness
- community responsibility
- friendship
- doing the right thing
About this book
Valdez Jones VIII—nicknamed Wrecker—knows the Florida Keys like the back of his hand, which comes in handy when a suspicious speedboat runs aground near his home. While juggling Zoom school and family obligations, he’s pulled into a tangle involving smugglers, grave robbers, and invasive iguanas. With sharp humor and nonstop action, Wrecker uses his wits and local know-how to protect his community and the wildlife he loves. Perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy eco-mysteries, quirky characters, and high-stakes adventures.
Setting: Florida Keys (Key West and surrounding islands), present day during remote learning
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wrecker right for my child?
Yes — Wrecker is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.2, 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 environmental conservation, courage, justice vs. wrongdoing.
How long does it take to read Wrecker?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Wrecker takes around 8.8h to finish. The book has 87,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Wrecker have an AR quiz?
Yes — Wrecker has an AR quiz available, worth 11 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 Wrecker?
Wrecker has an AR reading level of 5.2, 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.