City of the Dead: a Maximum Ride Novel
(Hawk 2)
by James Patterson
Arrow 2021
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.8 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- Mother–daughter relationships
- Leadership and responsibility
- Survival in dystopian worlds
- Identity and legacy
- Found family and loyalty
- Courage and sacrifice
- Trust and cooperation
- Good vs. evil
- Hope in the face of catastrophe
About this book
In a ravaged near-future New York known as the City of the Dead, Hawk struggles with the weight of being a symbol of hope. When an unseen enemy threatens to tip the balance as the dead begin to outnumber the living, Hawk reluctantly teams up with her mother, the legendary Maximum Ride. Their clashing instincts—and combined strengths—become the city’s best chance at survival.
Setting: Post-apocalyptic New York City (“City of the Dead”), near future
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is City of the Dead: a Maximum Ride Novel right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for City of the Dead: a Maximum Ride Novel. The reading level is AR 4.8, which is typical for 4th 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 Mother–daughter relationships, Leadership and responsibility, Survival in dystopian worlds.
How long does it take to read City of the Dead: a Maximum Ride Novel?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, City of the Dead: a Maximum Ride Novel takes around 8.7h to finish. The book has 78,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does City of the Dead: a Maximum Ride Novel have an AR quiz?
Yes — City of the Dead: a Maximum Ride Novel 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 City of the Dead: a Maximum Ride Novel?
City of the Dead: a Maximum Ride Novel has an AR reading level of 4.8, which places it at a 4th 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.