Skip to main content
The AR Booklist
Be a Friend to Trees book cover

Be a Friend to Trees

by Patricia Lauber

Harper Collins 1994

Great fit for 3rd grade

Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9

Themes include environmental stewardship

3rd grade English Juvenile Nonfiction
36
Pages
0.5
AR Points
7m
Read time
AR Quiz Available

Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.

Learn more about Accelerated Reading →

Genre

Nonfiction

Themes

  • environmental stewardship
  • conservation
  • interdependence of living things
  • habitats
  • responsibility
  • natural resources
  • respect for nature

About this book

This clear, friendly nonfiction book shows how trees help people and animals every day—from providing food and shelter to making the oxygen we breathe. With simple explanations and real-world examples, it helps young readers see the many ways we use products that come from trees. The book also encourages kids to protect and care for trees in their neighborhoods and beyond. Perfect for early elementary readers who enjoy nature and want to make a difference.

Setting: everyday environments and natural habitats (forests, parks, neighborhoods)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Be a Friend to Trees right for my child?

Yes — Be a Friend to Trees is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.2, 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 environmental stewardship, conservation, interdependence of living things.

How long does it take to read Be a Friend to Trees?

At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Be a Friend to Trees takes around 7m to finish. The book has 1,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.

Does Be a Friend to Trees have an AR quiz?

Yes — Be a Friend to Trees 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 Be a Friend to Trees?

Be a Friend to Trees has an AR reading level of 3.2, 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.