Bamboo People
Charlesbridge Publishing 2012
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.2 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
Themes include war and conflict
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- war and conflict
- identity
- empathy and compassion
- moral choices
- friendship across divides
- family and loyalty
- resilience
- human rights
About this book
Set in modern-day Burma (Myanmar), this dual-perspective novel follows Chiko, a quiet Burmese boy forced into the army, and Tu Reh, a Karenni refugee driven by anger and loss. When their lives collide in the jungle, both must decide what kind of men they will become. Readers are drawn in by the tense, fast-moving plot, rich cultural detail, and the hopeful thread of compassion amidst conflict. A thought-provoking choice for mature middle schoolers and young teens.
Setting: modern-day Myanmar (Burma), jungle borderlands and refugee camps near the Thai border
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bamboo People right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Bamboo People. The reading level is AR 5.2, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include war and conflict, identity, empathy and compassion.
How long does it take to read Bamboo People?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Bamboo People takes around 7.4h to finish. The book has 73,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Bamboo People have an AR quiz?
Yes — Bamboo People has an AR quiz available, worth 10 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 Bamboo People?
Bamboo People has an AR reading level of 5.2, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — 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.