Bessie Coleman
Daring to Fly
Millbrook Press 2003
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
Themes include racism and discrimination
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Genre
Themes
- perseverance
- breaking barriers
- courage
- racism and discrimination
- dreams and ambition
- role models
- aviation
- history
About this book
This engaging biography introduces Bessie Coleman, the first African American woman to earn a pilot’s license. Readers follow her journey from facing discrimination in the United States to training in France and thrilling crowds with daring flights. Short chapters, lively art, and clear text make it a strong choice for early independent readers. Kids are inspired by Bessie’s courage, big dreams, and love of flying.
Setting: United States and France, 1910s–1920s airfields and communities
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bessie Coleman right for my child?
Yes — Bessie Coleman is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.8, 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 perseverance, breaking barriers, courage.
How long does it take to read Bessie Coleman?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Bessie Coleman takes around 11m to finish. The book has 1,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Bessie Coleman have an AR quiz?
Yes — Bessie Coleman 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 Bessie Coleman?
Bessie Coleman has an AR reading level of 3.8, 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.