A Tale Magnolious
by Suzanne Nelson
Yearling 2020
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- found family
- courage
- hope
- community
- resilience
- kindness
- magic and wonder
About this book
Set during the Dust Bowl, this warm, slightly magical tale follows a brave orphan who bonds with an extraordinary elephant and sets out to revive a struggling town. Together they plant seeds of hope, kindness, and courage, showing how small acts can spark big change. With rich historical atmosphere and a touch of wonder, it’s perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy heartfelt adventures. Kids love the unforgettable animal companion, the underdog triumphs, and the uplifting message.
Setting: a small Great Plains town during the Dust Bowl, 1930s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Tale Magnolious right for my child?
Yes — A Tale Magnolious is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.3, which is typical for 5th 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, found family, courage.
How long does it take to read A Tale Magnolious?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, A Tale Magnolious takes around 8.9h to finish. The book has 88,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does A Tale Magnolious have an AR quiz?
Yes — A Tale Magnolious has an AR quiz available, worth 12 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 Tale Magnolious?
A Tale Magnolious has an AR reading level of 5.3, which places it at a 5th 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.