Big Mama and Grandma Ghana
by Angela Shelf Medearis
Scholastic 1994
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- family
- grandparents
- cultural heritage
- identity
- traditions
- love and belonging
- intergenerational relationships
About this book
A young girl spends time with two beloved grandmothers—Big Mama in the United States and Grandma Ghana—discovering how both families celebrate, cook, and share stories. Through warm everyday moments, she learns that different traditions can live side by side. The simple text and inviting illustrations make this a comforting, culturally rich read for early elementary readers. Kids enjoy the loving grandparent relationships and the peek into Ghanaian customs.
Setting: contemporary family homes in the United States and Ghana
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Big Mama and Grandma Ghana right for my child?
Yes — Big Mama and Grandma Ghana is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.7, which is typical for 2nd 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 family, grandparents, cultural heritage.
How long does it take to read Big Mama and Grandma Ghana?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Big Mama and Grandma Ghana takes around 5m to finish. The book has 600 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Big Mama and Grandma Ghana have an AR quiz?
Yes — Big Mama and Grandma Ghana 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 Big Mama and Grandma Ghana?
Big Mama and Grandma Ghana has an AR reading level of 2.7, which places it at a 2nd 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.