Backpack Stories
by Kevin O'Malley
Albert Whitman & Company 2009
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- imagination
- school life
- humor
- creativity
- problem-solving
- responsibility
About this book
This comic-book style picture book offers four short, funny takes on the humble backpack—turning it into a hero’s gadget, a science mishap, a monster, and more. Kevin O’Malley’s bold panels, speech bubbles, and visual gags make it a great pick for early elementary readers and reluctant readers alike. Kids will enjoy the fast pace, silly twists, and school-friendly humor. Perfect for grades 1–3 who like graphic storytelling and quick laughs.
Setting: elementary school and exaggerated, comic-book style scenarios
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Backpack Stories right for my child?
Yes — Backpack Stories is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.9, 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 imagination, school life, humor.
How long does it take to read Backpack Stories?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Backpack Stories takes around 10m to finish. The book has 1,200 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Backpack Stories have an AR quiz?
Yes — Backpack Stories 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 Backpack Stories?
Backpack Stories has an AR reading level of 2.9, 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.