Big words for little people
Joanna Cotler Books 2008
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- vocabulary and language
- kindness and respect
- cooperation
- self-control
- empathy
- confidence and self-esteem
- family and school life
About this book
This playful picture book introduces children to "big" vocabulary words like cooperate, respect, and persevere through catchy rhymes and silly, relatable scenes. Jamie Lee Curtis’s upbeat voice and Laura Cornell’s lively illustrations make learning new words feel fun and empowering. It’s perfect for read-alouds at home or school, sparking conversations about behavior, feelings, and choices. Young readers enjoy spotting the humor while practicing words they can use every day.
Setting: contemporary family and school settings
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Big words for little people right for my child?
Yes — Big words for little people 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 vocabulary and language, kindness and respect, cooperation.
How long does it take to read Big words for little people?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Big words for little people takes around 7m to finish. The book has 950 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Big words for little people have an AR quiz?
Yes — Big words for little people 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 words for little people?
Big words for little people 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.