Bad News for Outlaws
The Remarkable Life of Bass Reeves, Deputy U.S. Marshal
Carolrhoda Books 2009
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Themes include racism and prejudice
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Genre
Themes
- justice
- courage
- perseverance
- integrity
- heroism
- racism and prejudice
- law and order
- frontier life
About this book
This picture-book biography introduces Bass Reeves, one of the first Black deputy U.S. marshals west of the Mississippi, who brought law and order to the frontier with courage and quick thinking. Readers follow his daring arrests, clever disguises, and unshakable sense of justice in the Old West. Vivid language and dynamic art make history feel exciting and real, while back matter adds helpful context. Perfect for grades 3–6, especially readers who enjoy true stories about unsung heroes.
Setting: Indian Territory and Arkansas, American West, late 1800s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bad News for Outlaws right for my child?
Yes — Bad News for Outlaws is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.3, 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 justice, courage, perseverance.
How long does it take to read Bad News for Outlaws?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Bad News for Outlaws takes around 25m to finish. The book has 4,200 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Bad News for Outlaws have an AR quiz?
Yes — Bad News for Outlaws 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 Bad News for Outlaws?
Bad News for Outlaws has an AR reading level of 5.3, 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.