Barack Obama: An American Story
by Roberta Edwards
Grosset & Dunlap 2007
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- leadership
- perseverance
- identity
- civic engagement
- family
- education
- the American Dream
- hope
About this book
This early biography introduces young readers to Barack Obama’s life, from his childhood in Hawaii and Indonesia to his work as a community organizer and rise in American politics. Written in clear, accessible language with supportive visuals, it highlights the values of hard work, education, and public service. It’s a great pick for kids curious about leaders and how government works. Short chapters and engaging facts make it inviting for newly independent readers.
Setting: modern United States (Hawaii, Indonesia, Chicago, Washington, D.C.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Barack Obama: An American Story right for my child?
Yes — Barack Obama: An American Story is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.9, which is typical for 3rd 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 leadership, perseverance, identity.
How long does it take to read Barack Obama: An American Story?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Barack Obama: An American Story takes around 16m to finish. The book has 2,200 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Barack Obama: An American Story have an AR quiz?
Yes — Barack Obama: An American Story 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 Barack Obama: An American Story?
Barack Obama: An American Story has an AR reading level of 3.9, which places it at a 3rd 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.