Alan and Naomi
by Myron Levoy
Perfection Learning Prebound 1987
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Themes include healing from trauma, war and its impact on children
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- healing from trauma
- empathy
- courage
- war and its impact on children
- prejudice and anti-Semitism
- responsibility
- family
About this book
Set in 1944 New York City, this story follows sixth-grader Alan Silverman, who is asked to befriend Naomi, a French Jewish refugee traumatized by what she witnessed in Nazi-occupied Europe. At first unsure, Alan slowly discovers how patience, kindness, and small everyday moments can help someone begin to heal. The book offers an accessible window into the World War II home front and the impact of war on children. Readers who like heartfelt, character-driven historical fiction will connect with its empathy and quiet courage.
Setting: Brooklyn, New York City, 1944 (World War II home front)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alan and Naomi right for my child?
Yes — Alan and Naomi is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.5, which is typical for 4th 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, healing from trauma, empathy.
How long does it take to read Alan and Naomi?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Alan and Naomi takes around 4.2h to finish. The book has 38,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Alan and Naomi have an AR quiz?
Yes — Alan and Naomi has an AR quiz available, worth 6 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 Alan and Naomi?
Alan and Naomi has an AR reading level of 4.5, which places it at a 4th 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.