
97 ways to train a dragon
Grosset & Dunlap 2009
Easy read — content targets 4th–8th grade
Reading level 3.8 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- teamwork
- courage
- empathy for animals
- problem-solving
- standing up for what’s right
- humor
About this book
Wiglaf and his friends at the Dragon Slayers’ Academy discover that sometimes the best way to deal with a dragon isn’t to slay it—it's to outsmart it. Their latest quest turns into a hilarious crash course in dragon behavior, with plenty of mishaps, lists, and laugh-out-loud lessons along the way. Fast-paced chapters, goofy wordplay, and cartoonish peril make this a fun pick for growing readers. Perfect for kids who like humorous fantasy adventures without anything too scary.
Setting: a spoof-y medieval kingdom centered on the Dragon Slayers’ Academy and nearby forests/villages
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 97 ways to train a dragon right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for 97 ways to train a dragon. The reading level is AR 3.8, which is typical for 3rd grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 9–14 (4th–8th grade). Themes include friendship, teamwork, courage.
How long does it take to read 97 ways to train a dragon?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, 97 ways to train a dragon takes around 1.2h to finish. The book has 10,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does 97 ways to train a dragon have an AR quiz?
Yes — 97 ways to train a dragon has an AR quiz available, worth 1 point. 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 97 ways to train a dragon?
97 ways to train a dragon has an AR reading level of 3.8, which places it at a 3rd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8) — 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.