Always in trouble
Scholastic Paperbacks 2009
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- pet ownership
- responsibility
- behavior and consequences
- patience
- family love
- problem-solving
About this book
This humorous picture book follows Toby, a lovable dog who just can’t seem to stay out of trouble. From chewed shoes to messy mishaps, his family tries everything—including doggy school—to help him learn better habits. Young readers will giggle at Toby’s antics and root for him as he tries to do the right thing. It’s a lively read‑aloud for early elementary kids and a gentle look at patience and pet responsibility.
Setting: a contemporary suburban home and neighborhood
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Always in trouble right for my child?
Yes — Always in trouble is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.1, which is typical for 2nd 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 pet ownership, responsibility, behavior and consequences.
How long does it take to read Always in trouble?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Always in trouble takes around 5m to finish. The book has 580 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Always in trouble have an AR quiz?
Yes — Always in trouble 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 Always in trouble?
Always in trouble has an AR reading level of 2.1, which places it at a 2nd 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.