Arctic Drift
Dirk Pitt #20
by Clive Cussler, Dirk Cussler
Sphere 2024
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 6.2 (6th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- Climate change and environmental crisis
- Corporate greed and conspiracy
- Survival in extreme environments
- Scientific ethics and innovation
- Geopolitical tension over Arctic resources
- Sabotage and espionage
- Lost history and shipwreck mysteries
- Race-against-the-clock adventure
About this book
When a lab explosion nearly kills Dirk Pitt, the NUMA director uncovers a plot to control a rare catalytic mineral that could neutralize greenhouse gases. Clues from a Victorian-era ship lost while seeking the Northwest Passage send Pitt and Al Giordino into the Arctic, where corporate mercenaries, geopolitical tensions, and lethal weather turn a scientific breakthrough into a global power struggle. Racing against sabotage and the elements, they must unearth the ship’s secret before the world’s best hope is lost.
Setting: The Arctic Ocean and Canadian High Arctic (Northwest Passage), with scenes in NUMA facilities and Washington, D.C., and historical threads tied to a 19th-century Victorian expedition shipwreck.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arctic Drift right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Arctic Drift. 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 Climate change and environmental crisis, Corporate greed and conspiracy, Survival in extreme environments.
How long does it take to read Arctic Drift?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Arctic Drift takes around 14h to finish. The book has 143,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Arctic Drift have an AR quiz?
Yes — Arctic Drift has an AR quiz available, worth 23 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 Arctic Drift?
Arctic Drift 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.