Hawk
by James Patterson
Young Arrow 2021
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.6 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- survival against the odds
- identity and self‑discovery
- found family and loyalty
- legacy and parent–child bonds
- genetic engineering and ethics
- power, control, and rebellion
- hope and leadership in crisis
- environmental and societal collapse
About this book
In a ravaged near‑future New York, a tough, street‑smart 15‑year‑old known as Hawk lives by one rule: wait for the parents who promised they’d return. When kids begin to disappear and a dangerous new power rises in the city, Hawk discovers the wings and legacy she never knew she had. Thrust into a fight for survival and truth, she must rally other outcast teens, uncover what happened to Maximum Ride, and decide who she’s willing to become.
Setting: Post-apocalyptic, near-future New York City (ruined boroughs, canals, and gang-controlled zones)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hawk right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Hawk. The reading level is AR 4.6, 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 survival against the odds, identity and self‑discovery, found family and loyalty.
How long does it take to read Hawk?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Hawk takes around 7.7h to finish. The book has 69,400 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Hawk have an AR quiz?
Yes — Hawk has an AR quiz available, worth 10 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 Hawk?
Hawk has an AR reading level of 4.6, 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.