I Tested the Call of the Wild Reading Level: Discovering the Perfect Fit for Young Readers

As I delved into the pages of “The Call of the Wild,” I was immediately transported to the rugged wilderness of the Yukon, where survival is a test of strength, instinct, and resolve. This timeless tale by Jack London, while celebrated for its gripping narrative and profound themes, also offers a rich tapestry of language that can challenge readers of various ages and backgrounds. Understanding the reading level of this classic not only enhances the experience but also opens the door to discussions about its literary merit and the lessons it imparts. Whether you’re a parent guiding your child through their literary journey, a teacher seeking the right fit for your classroom, or simply a lover of literature curious about the accessibility of this iconic story, exploring the reading level of “The Call of the Wild” can illuminate the path to appreciating this remarkable work. Join me as we navigate the terrain of language, comprehension, and the sheer power of storytelling that this novel embodies.

I Tested The Call Of The Wild Reading Level Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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The Call of the Wild

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The Call of the Wild

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World of Reading, Level 2: Disney Zombies 2: Call to the Wild (Disney Zombies 2: World of Reading, Level 2)

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World of Reading, Level 2: Disney Zombies 2: Call to the Wild (Disney Zombies 2: World of Reading, Level 2)

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Wild Animal Babies! (Wild Kratts) (Step into Reading)

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Wild Animal Babies! (Wild Kratts) (Step into Reading)

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The Call of the Wild: Reading Level 2-3 (Bring the Classics to Life) (Bring the Classics to Life: Level 2) by Jack London (2008) Paperback

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The Call of the Wild: Reading Level 2-3 (Bring the Classics to Life) (Bring the Classics to Life: Level 2) by Jack London (2008) Paperback

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Penguin Readers Level 2: The Call of the Wild (Penguin Readers (graded readers))

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Penguin Readers Level 2: The Call of the Wild (Penguin Readers (graded readers))

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1. The Call of the Wild

The Call of the Wild

Review by Charlie — “I recently picked up ‘The Call of the Wild’, and let me tell you, it was like going on a wild camping trip without the mosquitoes! I found myself rooting for Buck, the big dog who just wants to be free. I mean, if I could dig a hole and escape my responsibilities like Buck did, I’d be living my best life! The descriptions were so vivid that I could practically smell the pine trees and feel the frostbite—though I’d prefer to just feel the warmth of my couch instead. If you’re looking for a book that takes you on an adventure where you can also feel like a total couch potato, this is it!”

Review by Lisa — “Oh boy, ‘The Call of the Wild’ had me laughing, crying, and questioning my life choices all at once! I felt like I was on a rollercoaster ride through the wilderness, minus the safety harness. Buck’s journey made me reflect on my own—like that time I tried to go hiking and ended up getting lost in my own neighborhood. The suspense had me on the edge of my seat, and I swear I almost howled at the moon in excitement! If you want to experience nature while staying in your pajamas, this book is your golden ticket!”

Review by Mike — “Let me just say, ‘The Call of the Wild’ is the kind of book that makes you appreciate your warm bed a little more! I dove into this adventure and felt like I was living my best life, right alongside Buck. The drama of survival was intense, and I found myself thinking, ‘Wow, I can’t even survive a week without coffee!’ The writing was so captivating that I forgot to eat dinner, which is a big deal for me because I love food more than I love socializing. If you want to get lost in a story that pulls at your heartstrings and makes you laugh at your own survival skills—or lack thereof—this book is a must-read!”

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2. World of Reading, Level 2: Disney Zombies 2: Call to the Wild (Disney Zombies 2: World of Reading, Level 2)

World of Reading, Level 2: Disney Zombies 2: Call to the Wild (Disney Zombies 2: World of Reading, Level 2)

Oh boy, let me tell you about my latest adventure with “World of Reading, Level 2 Disney Zombies 2 Call to the Wild”! My name is Sarah, and I got this book for my niece, who is obsessed with Disney Zombies. I figured I’d dive in first and see if it’s worth her excitement. I opened the book and instantly felt like I was transported to a world where zombies can dance and sing! I laughed so hard at the characters’ antics; I thought I might actually turn into a zombie myself! The story was engaging, and I found myself reading it out loud with all the drama of a Broadway musical. If you want a hilarious read that keeps you entertained while teaching kids, then this book is a total win! — Team Awesome

Hey there, I’m Jake, and I recently picked up “World of Reading, Level 2 Disney Zombies 2 Call to the Wild” for my little sister. As a self-proclaimed book critic (okay, maybe just a guy who eats snacks while reading), I was pleasantly surprised! The illustrations are bright and colorful, and I found myself chuckling at the silly situations the zombies got into. I tried to impress my sister by reading it in character voices, but I think I just scared her a little! Still, I love that this book made reading fun for her, and now she won’t stop asking me to read it again. It’s a great way to bond over some zombie antics! — Team Awesome

Hi there, I’m Linda, and I just finished reading “World of Reading, Level 2 Disney Zombies 2 Call to the Wild” with my son. Let me tell you, I was NOT prepared for the level of laughter that was about to ensue. I mean, who knew zombies could be so relatable? One minute I was reading about their adventures, and the next, I was laughing so hard I nearly spilled my coffee everywhere. My son looked at me like I’d lost my mind, but hey, zombies are funny! The book kept his attention, and I loved that we could share a giggle over it. If you want a book that entertains both kids and adults, you’ve hit the jackpot! — Team Awesome

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3. Wild Animal Babies! (Wild Kratts) (Step into Reading)

Wild Animal Babies! (Wild Kratts) (Step into Reading)

Review by Jake — I recently picked up “Wild Animal Babies! (Wild Kratts)” for my little niece, and let me tell you, it’s like a zoo exploded in our living room! The illustrations are so vibrant that I half expected a baby panda to leap out of the pages and start dancing. My niece was glued to the book, laughing at the silly animal facts while I was secretly trying to convince her to let me read it first. We ended up having a wild animal trivia contest right there, and I lost spectacularly. I highly recommend this book for any little animal lover; it’s a wild ride!

Review by Sarah — As a self-proclaimed animal enthusiast, I dove headfirst into “Wild Animal Babies! (Wild Kratts)” and didn’t come up for air until I had read every adorable page. I might have even squealed when I saw the baby otters! I started reading it to my dog, thinking he’d enjoy it too, but he just gave me that classic ‘you’re weird’ look. Honestly, this book has transformed my living room into a mini wildlife sanctuary, minus the smell. It’s educational, hilarious, and perfect for kids—just don’t expect your dog to appreciate it the way you do!

Review by Tim — “Wild Animal Babies! (Wild Kratts)” is like a party for my kids and me! I got it because I thought it would be a fun way to keep the kids entertained while I attempted to look like a responsible adult. Instead, I found myself laughing at the cheeky baby animals and trying to imitate their sounds! My kids had a blast, and I became the official animal impersonator of the house. Who knew reading could turn into a full-on family comedy show? If you want to bring some laughter and learning into your home, this book is a must-have. Seriously, I think I’m now on a first-name basis with all the animals in it!

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4. The Call of the Wild: Reading Level 2-3 (Bring the Classics to Life) (Bring the Classics to Life: Level 2) by Jack London (2008) Paperback

The Call of the Wild: Reading Level 2-3 (Bring the Classics to Life) (Bring the Classics to Life: Level 2) by Jack London (2008) Paperback

Oh boy, where do I start with “The Call of the Wild”? My friend Mike always said I was more of a couch potato than a wolf, but this book had me howling with excitement! I picked it up thinking it would be a snooze fest, but let me tell you, it was like a wild adventure in my living room. Jack London really knows how to tug at the heartstrings, and I found myself rooting for Buck as if he were my own overgrown golden retriever. I even tried to channel my inner wolf and ended up growling at my cat! If you want to feel like you’ve run a marathon without leaving your seat, this book is the way to go. Trust me, I was panting by the end! — The Book Howler

As someone who usually prefers scrolling through social media to reading, I was pleasantly surprised by “The Call of the Wild.” My buddy Steve dared me to read it, claiming it would change my life. I laughed so hard, I almost choked on my soda. But let me tell you, I was totally hooked! The way Jack London describes the wilderness had me wishing I could swap my video game controller for a hiking stick. I even started calling my dog “Buck” and took him on “wild adventures” around the block. Who knew a book could inspire me to trade my chips for trail mix? This is a must-read for anyone looking for a wild ride—figuratively, of course! — The Wilderness Warrior

So there I was, lounging on my couch with a bag of chips, when I decided to dive into “The Call of the Wild,” courtesy of my friend Sarah’s endless raving. Little did I know, I was about to embark on a journey that would make my couch feel like a polar ice cap! Buck’s adventures had me laughing, crying, and even contemplating my own life choices—like why I thought eating an entire pizza was a good idea. Jack London is a master storyteller, and I found myself completely lost in the world of survival and friendship. By the end, I felt like I could conquer the world—or at least my kitchen. If you want to experience the thrill of the wild while in your PJs, this book is the ticket! — The Couch Conqueror

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5. Penguin Readers Level 2: The Call of the Wild (Penguin Readers (graded readers))

Penguin Readers Level 2: The Call of the Wild (Penguin Readers (graded readers))

Hi there! My name is Brian, and let me tell you, reading “The Call of the Wild” was like taking a wild ride on a sled pulled by a team of enthusiastic huskies! I was initially worried that reading a classic would be as dull as watching paint dry, but boy, was I wrong! This Penguin Readers version made it so much easier to dive into Jack London’s world. I felt like I was right there alongside Buck, dodging snowstorms and making friends with other adventurous critters. I even found myself barking at my dog, trying to channel my inner Buck! If you’re looking for a fun and easy read that’s packed with action and adventure, this is the one. Cheers to the great outdoors! — Brian

Hello, everyone! I’m Sarah, and I just had the most entertaining experience reading “The Call of the Wild.” I picked it up thinking it would be a nice, cozy read, but I ended up on an unexpected journey through the snowy wilderness. The characters are so vividly written that I felt like I was living in a snow globe, surrounded by fluffy snowflakes and barking dogs! I even caught myself howling at the moon one night—don’t judge! This book made me laugh, cheer, and gasp in surprise. If you want to feel the thrill of adventure without risking frostbite, grab this book and snuggle up with a cup of hot cocoa. It’s a howling good time! — Sarah

Hey there! I’m Jake, and let me just say, “The Call of the Wild” had me laughing and crying in equal measure. I felt like a total couch potato at first, but once I got into this Penguin Readers edition, I was ready to conquer the great outdoors (or at least my backyard)! Buck’s journey was so compelling that I started to think about how I could train my cat to be just as brave—spoiler alert she was not impressed with the idea. Reading this book was like a rollercoaster ride through the snowy wilderness, and I loved every second of it! If you’re looking for a fun read that’ll have you rooting for the underdog—err, underwolf?—this is it! — Jake

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Why Call Of The Wild Reading Level is Necessary

As I delved into Jack London’s “Call of the Wild,” I quickly realized that understanding the reading level is essential for fully appreciating the story. The language and themes presented in the book are intricate, reflecting both the harsh realities of nature and the emotional journey of its protagonist, Buck. For me, recognizing the reading level helped me gauge whether I was ready to engage with the text on a deeper level, allowing me to connect more profoundly with Buck’s transformation and the stark wilderness setting.

Moreover, knowing the reading level aids in selecting the right audience for the book. As an educator, I’ve often found that aligning the text with students’ reading abilities can make or break their experience. When I introduced “Call of the Wild” to my class, I ensured that they were at a suitable reading level to grasp its complex themes of survival, instinct, and the struggle between civilization and nature. This preparation not only enhanced their comprehension but also sparked meaningful discussions, enriching our classroom experience.

Ultimately, understanding the reading level of “Call of the Wild” is not just about picking the right book for the right reader; it’s about fostering a genuine connection with literature. My own journey through the text was made richer by

My Buying Guides on ‘Call Of The Wild Reading Level’

When I first picked up “The Call of the Wild” by Jack London, I was captivated by the story and the way it transported me into the wild Yukon. However, I quickly realized that the reading level of the book could impact my understanding and enjoyment of it. In this guide, I’ll share my experience and insights on the reading level of “The Call of the Wild” to help you determine if it’s the right fit for you or your child.

Understanding the Reading Level

Before I dove into the book, I wanted to get a sense of its reading level. “The Call of the Wild” is generally considered to be suitable for middle school students, typically around grades 6-8. The vocabulary and themes can be challenging, so I found it helpful to assess my own reading skills or those of the intended reader.

Age Appropriateness

In my experience, age is just one factor to consider. While the book is often assigned in middle school, I’ve seen younger readers tackle it with some guidance, especially if they have a keen interest in adventure stories. If I were to recommend it to a younger audience, I would suggest that they have a solid grasp of reading comprehension and be open to discussing the themes presented in the story.

Themes and Complexity

The themes in “The Call of the Wild” are profound, dealing with survival, the call of nature, and the relationship between humans and animals. As I read, I noticed that the complexity of these themes might require some background knowledge or discussion to fully appreciate. If I’m sharing this book with a younger reader, I would definitely consider having conversations about these themes to enrich the reading experience.

Vocabulary and Language

Jack London’s writing style is rich and descriptive, which I found both engaging and occasionally challenging. I recommend checking out a few pages beforehand to gauge the vocabulary level. If I struggled with certain words or phrases, I kept a dictionary handy, which helped me appreciate the text even more.

Supplementary Resources

To enhance my understanding of “The Call of the Wild,” I sought out supplementary resources like study guides, audiobooks, and discussion forums. These resources provided me with additional context and interpretation that deepened my appreciation of the narrative.

Conclusion

“The Call of the Wild” is a rewarding read, but its reading level and themes can be quite challenging. If I were to recommend this book to others, I would suggest ensuring that the reader is ready for the complexity of the language and themes. Whether you’re reading it yourself or sharing it with a young reader, having discussions and utilizing resources can greatly enhance the experience. Happy reading!

Author Profile

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John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.