At the Edge of the Pond
by Jennifer Owings Dewey
StarWalk Kids Media 2012
Challenging read for K–3rd grade
Reading level 4.8 (4th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- habitats
- interdependence
- food webs
- adaptation
- observation of nature
- life cycles
- biodiversity
About this book
This quiet, detailed nature book invites readers to explore the lively border where land meets water. Page by page, children observe shrews, insects, frogs, and other pond-edge creatures as they hunt, hide, and share a small but bustling habitat. Clear, realistic art and precise language encourage close looking and curiosity about how living things connect. It’s a great pick for young naturalists and classroom studies of habitats and food webs.
Setting: the edge of a temperate freshwater pond across the seasons
Frequently Asked Questions
Is At the Edge of the Pond right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for At the Edge of the Pond. The reading level is AR 4.8, which is typical for 4th 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 habitats, interdependence, food webs.
How long does it take to read At the Edge of the Pond?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, At the Edge of the Pond takes around 23m to finish. The book has 3,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does At the Edge of the Pond have an AR quiz?
Yes — At the Edge of the Pond 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 At the Edge of the Pond?
At the Edge of the Pond has an AR reading level of 4.8, which places it at a 4th 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.