Black Gold
by Laura Obuobi
HarperCollins 2024
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- identity
- self-worth
- empowerment
- Black pride
- belonging
- love
- origin and creation
- wonder
About this book
Black Gold is a lyrical picture book that celebrates Black children as cherished creations of the Universe. Through cosmic imagery and loving, affirming verse, it invites young readers to see their worth, beauty, and limitless potential. With rich collage artwork and gentle, poetic language, it’s perfect for shared readings and classroom discussions about identity and self-love.
Setting: the cosmos and a child’s everyday world
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Black Gold right for my child?
Yes — Black Gold is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.3, 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 identity, self-worth, empowerment.
How long does it take to read Black Gold?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Black Gold takes around 4m to finish. The book has 550 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Black Gold have an AR quiz?
Yes — Black Gold 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 Black Gold?
Black Gold has an AR reading level of 3.3, 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.