Scarpetta
Scarpetta (Book 16)
by Patricia Cornwell
Penguin 2008
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 6.8 (6th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Themes include trauma and psychological suspense
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- forensic science
- cyberstalking and online harassment
- truth versus media spin
- obsession and manipulation
- trust and betrayal
- justice and accountability
- trauma and psychological suspense
- professional ethics
About this book
In the sixteenth Kay Scarpetta novel, the renowned forensic pathologist is working in New York City when a deeply anxious man, Oscar Bane, insists he will speak only to her about a grisly death he may or may not have committed. As Scarpetta, Benton, Lucy, and Marino probe the case, they’re drawn into a web of cyberstalking, media manipulation, and cutting-edge forensics that turns frighteningly personal and puts Scarpetta in the crosshairs.
Setting: Contemporary New York City; crime labs, hospitals, and digital/cyberspace environments
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scarpetta right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Scarpetta. The reading level is AR 6.8, which is typical for 6th 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 forensic science, cyberstalking and online harassment, truth versus media spin.
How long does it take to read Scarpetta?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Scarpetta takes around 15h to finish. The book has 160,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Scarpetta have an AR quiz?
Yes — Scarpetta has an AR quiz available, worth 16 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 Scarpetta?
Scarpetta has an AR reading level of 6.8, which places it at a 6th 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.