Arrow to the sun
Weston Woods 1988
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- father–child bond
- courage
- journey/quest
- tradition and culture
- perseverance
- spirituality
About this book
This Caldecott Medal picture book retells a Pueblo myth about a boy who seeks his true identity and a connection to his father, the Sun. With bold, geometric art and rhythmic, simple text, the story follows his journey and the trials he must face to prove himself. It’s a powerful introduction to Native American folklore for early elementary readers. Kids enjoy the striking visuals, the clear hero’s quest, and the celebration of culture and courage.
Setting: a mythic Pueblo world in the American Southwest
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arrow to the sun right for my child?
Yes — Arrow to the sun 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 identity, father–child bond, courage.
How long does it take to read Arrow to the sun?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Arrow to the sun takes around 5m to finish. The book has 600 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Arrow to the sun have an AR quiz?
Yes — Arrow to the sun 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 Arrow to the sun?
Arrow to the sun 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.