An Acceptable Time
by Madeleine Lengle
2022
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- time travel
- family and legacy
- faith vs. science
- courage
- cultural misunderstanding
- sacrifice
- identity and belonging
- trust
About this book
Polly O’Keefe visits her grandparents’ farm and discovers a mysterious time portal that opens onto the same land thousands of years in the past. Drawn into an ancient world with rival peoples and dangerous beliefs, she must rely on her wits, courage, and the guidance of trusted friends to find her way home. This thoughtful, time-bending adventure explores big ideas about belief, responsibility, and belonging. Perfect for readers who enjoy science fantasy with heart and a strong, resourceful heroine.
Setting: present-day rural Connecticut and prehistoric New England (~3,000 years ago)
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is An Acceptable Time right for my child?
Yes — An Acceptable Time is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.2, which is typical for 5th 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 time travel, family and legacy, faith vs. science.
How long does it take to read An Acceptable Time?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, An Acceptable Time takes around 8.6h to finish. The book has 85,000 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 12 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 5.2, which places it at a 5th 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.