Breathless
A Novel
by Dean Koontz
Bantam 2009
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5.9 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- Wonder and the mystery of creation
- Human–animal bond
- Government secrecy and surveillance
- Science, ethics, and the unknown
- Isolation and connection
- Identity and duality (twins)
- Faith vs. reason
- Redemption and moral choice
About this book
In the Colorado Rockies, reclusive craftsman Grady Adams and his Irish wolfhound, Merlin, encounter two inexplicable, seemingly otherworldly creatures. As local veterinarian Camillia Rivers joins Grady to understand the beings, their presence draws the attention of shadowy government operatives and stirs parallel stories of estranged twins and a ruthless loner. What begins as a wilderness mystery becomes a meditation on creation, consciousness, and the forces—human and otherwise—that respond to the unknown.
Setting: Contemporary Colorado Rockies and a nearby small mountain town, including remote forest, a craftsman’s cabin, a veterinary clinic, and rural farms
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Breathless right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Breathless. The reading level is AR 5.9, which is typical for 5th 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 Wonder and the mystery of creation, Human–animal bond, Government secrecy and surveillance.
How long does it take to read Breathless?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Breathless takes around 8.7h to finish. The book has 86,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Breathless have an AR quiz?
Yes — Breathless has an AR quiz available, worth 13 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 Breathless?
Breathless has an AR reading level of 5.9, which places it at a 5th 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.