The Shawshank Redemption
by Stephen King
Simon and Schuster 2024
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.3 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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About this book
Originally published in 1982 in Different Seasons by Viking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Shawshank Redemption right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Shawshank Redemption. The reading level is AR 4.3, 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).
How long does it take to read The Shawshank Redemption?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, The Shawshank Redemption takes around 3.5h to finish. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Shawshank Redemption have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Shawshank Redemption has an AR quiz available. 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 Shawshank Redemption?
The Shawshank Redemption has an AR reading level of 4.3, 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.