Bella Arabella
by Fosburgh
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers 2010
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- belonging
- family secrets
- friendship with animals
- courage
- self-discovery
- independence
- magic and transformation
About this book
Arabella has always felt different—and a little bit wild. When she’s sent to live in a creaky old house with strict rules and curious whispers, a clever cat and a string of mysterious clues lead her toward the truth about who she is. Brisk chapters, a touch of magic, and an old-fashioned English setting make this a cozy, page-turning read. Perfect for readers who like mysteries with heart and a hint of enchantment.
Setting: an old English manor and nearby village
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bella Arabella right for my child?
Yes — Bella Arabella is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5, 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 identity, belonging, family secrets.
How long does it take to read Bella Arabella?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Bella Arabella takes around 2.2h to finish. The book has 22,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Bella Arabella have an AR quiz?
Yes — Bella Arabella has an AR quiz available, worth 3 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 Bella Arabella?
Bella Arabella has an AR reading level of 5, 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.