Cell
A Novel
by Stephen King
Simon and Schuster 2006
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5.2 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Themes include violence and dehumanization
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Genre
Themes
- technology gone wrong
- survival
- apocalypse
- mass hysteria and contagion
- loss of identity
- parental love and protection
- group dynamics under stress
- violence and dehumanization
- communication and control
- hope versus despair
About this book
When a mysterious signal known as the Pulse is broadcast through cell phones, it instantly turns callers into violent, hive-minded killers. Graphic novelist Clay Riddell and a small band of survivors fight to stay alive as they journey from a ravaged Boston toward Maine, where Clay hopes to find his son—only to discover the Pulse is still evolving.
Setting: Contemporary post-apocalyptic New England (primarily Boston to Maine) and the wider United States following a catastrophic cell-phone–borne signal
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cell right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Cell. The reading level is AR 5.2, 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 technology gone wrong, survival, apocalypse.
How long does it take to read Cell?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Cell takes around 15h to finish. The book has 149,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Cell have an AR quiz?
Yes — Cell has an AR quiz available, worth 17 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 Cell?
Cell has an AR reading level of 5.2, 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.