Always My Dad
Knopf 1994
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- father–child bond
- family separation
- love and reassurance
- resilience
- belonging
- coping with change
About this book
A young girl shares what it’s like to live apart from her father and the joy she feels when he comes to visit. Simple, heartfelt text and warm illustrations highlight the strength of their bond and the ways they stay connected between visits. This gentle picture book reassures children experiencing separation or changing family routines. Ideal for read‑alouds with primary grades and families looking for comforting, realistic stories.
Setting: contemporary small-town America
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Always My Dad right for my child?
Yes — Always My Dad is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.8, 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 father–child bond, family separation, love and reassurance.
How long does it take to read Always My Dad?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Always My Dad takes around 7m to finish. The book has 800 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Always My Dad have an AR quiz?
Yes — Always My Dad 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 My Dad?
Always My Dad has an AR reading level of 2.8, 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.