Wild one
by Paul Kropp
EMC Pub. 1983
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 3.2 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- rebellion
- peer pressure
- identity
- choices and consequences
- family dynamics
- trust and loyalty
- redemption
- self-control
About this book
A tough, impulsive teen with a reputation as the "wild one" keeps landing in trouble—until a chain of choices forces him to decide who he really wants to be. Set in and around school, the story follows his clashes with authority, risky friendships, and the pull between acting out and taking responsibility. Written in short, fast-paced chapters with accessible language, it’s ideal for reluctant readers. Tweens and teens will connect with the authentic voice and the high-stakes decisions.
Setting: a contemporary Canadian city and high school, 1980s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wild one right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Wild one. The reading level is AR 3.2, which is typical for 3rd grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include rebellion, peer pressure, identity.
How long does it take to read Wild one?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Wild one takes around 1.6h to finish. The book has 13,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Wild one have an AR quiz?
Yes — Wild one has an AR quiz available, worth 2 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 Wild one?
Wild one has an AR reading level of 3.2, which places it at a 3rd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — 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.