An Acceptable Time
Macmillan 2007
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.3 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- time travel
- faith vs. reason
- cultural understanding
- family and legacy
- courage
- responsibility
- friendship and loyalty
- sacrifice
About this book
Polly O’Keefe is spending time at her grandparents’ farmhouse when a mysterious time circle opens on the hill, linking the present to an ancient era in New England. Drawn across centuries, Polly encounters two peoples in fragile balance and must rely on her wits, compassion, and the Murry family’s blend of science and wonder. The story explores big questions about faith, responsibility, and belonging without giving away the answers. Readers who enjoy thoughtful time-travel adventures and strong, relatable heroines will be hooked.
Setting: contemporary rural Connecticut and prehistoric New England
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is An Acceptable Time right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for An Acceptable Time. The reading level is AR 5.3, which is typical for 5th 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 time travel, faith vs. reason, cultural understanding.
How long does it take to read An Acceptable Time?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, An Acceptable Time takes around 9.4h to finish. The book has 93,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does An Acceptable Time have an AR quiz?
Yes — An Acceptable Time has an AR quiz available, worth 13 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 An Acceptable Time?
An Acceptable Time has an AR reading level of 5.3, which places it at a 5th 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.