The Love Curse of the Rumbaughs
by Jack Gantos
Macmillan 2006
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 6.1 (6th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Themes include death and preservation
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Genre
Themes
- obsession
- mother–child bonds
- identity and inheritance
- family secrets
- nature vs. nurture
- morality and ethics
- death and preservation
- small-town life
About this book
When Ivy, a curious teen who lives in a small-town hotel with her mother, wanders into the Rumbaughs’ old pharmacy, she uncovers a macabre secret that changes how she sees her neighbors—and herself. This gothic tale explores how fierce family love can blur into obsession, raising unsettling questions about loyalty, inheritance, and identity. With eerie atmosphere and psychological tension, it’s a thought-provoking read for mature teens who enjoy dark, offbeat stories. Readers are drawn in by Ivy’s intimate voice and the twisty family history at the heart of the mystery.
Setting: a small American town centered on an old pharmacy and hotel, contemporary with glimpses into the past
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Love Curse of the Rumbaughs right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Love Curse of the Rumbaughs. The reading level is AR 6.1, 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 obsession, mother–child bonds, identity and inheritance.
How long does it take to read The Love Curse of the Rumbaughs?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, The Love Curse of the Rumbaughs takes around 5.0h to finish. The book has 52,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Love Curse of the Rumbaughs have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Love Curse of the Rumbaughs has an AR quiz available, worth 7 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 The Love Curse of the Rumbaughs?
The Love Curse of the Rumbaughs has an AR reading level of 6.1, 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.