Next (Enhanced Edition)
Harper Collins 2011
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 7 (7th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- genetic engineering and biotechnology
- bioethics and scientific responsibility
- gene patenting and ownership of life
- corporate greed and commercialization of science
- identity, family, and bodily autonomy
- media sensationalism and public perception of science
- law, policy, and regulation
- human–animal boundaries and transgenics
- surveillance, privacy, and data exploitation
About this book
Michael Crichton’s techno-thriller tracks the chaotic, real-time fallout of modern genetics—gene patents, designer organisms, and corporate ambition—through intersecting storylines: a family targeted over a valuable cell line, researchers chasing breakthroughs and profits, a transgenic child and a talking parrot, and lawyers and lobbyists shaping what life can be owned. Fast, provocative, and darkly satirical, it explores how law, media, and money collide with science.
Setting: Contemporary United States (primarily California and Washington, D.C.), spanning biotech labs, research hospitals, courtrooms, corporate offices, and universities
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Next (Enhanced Edition) right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Next (Enhanced Edition). The reading level is AR 7, which is typical for 7th 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 genetic engineering and biotechnology, bioethics and scientific responsibility, gene patenting and ownership of life.
How long does it take to read Next (Enhanced Edition)?
At a typical 7th grade reading pace, Next (Enhanced Edition) takes around 14h to finish. The book has 149,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Next (Enhanced Edition) have an AR quiz?
Yes — Next (Enhanced Edition) has an AR quiz available, worth 24 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 Next (Enhanced Edition)?
Next (Enhanced Edition) has an AR reading level of 7, which places it at a 7th 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.