Across the Grain
by Jean Ferris
Perfection Learning Prebound 1993
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.8 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- gender roles and equality
- perseverance
- self-discovery
- mentorship
- family expectations
- craftsmanship
- independence
- confidence
About this book
A determined high school girl decides to follow her love of woodworking, even when everyone expects her to choose something more "appropriate." As she enrolls in shop class and seeks real-world experience, she runs into skepticism, subtle sexism, and family pressure. With humor and grit, she learns the craft and discovers her own voice. Readers who enjoy stories about breaking stereotypes and finding a passion will be hooked.
Setting: a contemporary American high school and local woodworking shop
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Across the Grain right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Across the Grain. The reading level is AR 4.8, which is typical for 4th 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 gender roles and equality, perseverance, self-discovery.
How long does it take to read Across the Grain?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Across the Grain takes around 6.7h to finish. The book has 60,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Across the Grain have an AR quiz?
Yes — Across the Grain has an AR quiz available, worth 8 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 Across the Grain?
Across the Grain has an AR reading level of 4.8, which places it at a 4th 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.