A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin
by Jen Bryant
Knopf Books for Young Readers 2013
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
Themes include disability awareness
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Genre
Themes
- perseverance
- creativity and art
- overcoming adversity
- self-expression
- disability awareness
- hope and resilience
- African American history
- inspiration
About this book
This picture-book biography celebrates self-taught African American artist Horace Pippin, who loved to draw from childhood and found his way back to painting after a World War I injury. Jen Bryant’s lyrical text and Melissa Sweet’s vibrant collage-and-watercolor art show how Pippin’s determination and eye for color—especially his signature splash of red—brought his stories to life. It’s an inspiring, accessible introduction to an important American artist and a powerful message about perseverance and creativity. Perfect for young readers who enjoy true stories about artists and history.
Setting: Pennsylvania and World War I France, late 1800s to mid-1900s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin right for my child?
Yes — A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.7, which is typical for 3rd grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include perseverance, creativity and art, overcoming adversity.
How long does it take to read A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin takes around 9m to finish. The book has 1,200 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin have an AR quiz?
Yes — A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 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 A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin?
A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin has an AR reading level of 3.7, which places it at a 3rd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — 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.