Blackbeard, the pirate king
National Geographic Society 2006
Challenging read for K–3rd grade
Reading level 5.1 (5th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range
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Genre
Themes
- adventure
- legend vs. history
- the sea
- power and leadership
- law and order
- bravery
- consequences
About this book
This picture book biography follows the rise and legend of Blackbeard, the infamous pirate who roamed the Atlantic and Caribbean in the early 1700s. J. Patrick Lewis’s vivid, dramatic text pairs with striking artwork to bring sea battles, daring raids, and the man behind the myth to life. Back matter and historical notes help young readers separate fact from legend. It’s a great pick for elementary readers who love adventure, history, and tales of the high seas.
Setting: Atlantic seaboard and Caribbean, early 18th century (colonial America)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Blackbeard, the pirate king right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Blackbeard, the pirate king. The reading level is AR 5.1, which is typical for 5th 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 adventure, legend vs. history, the sea.
How long does it take to read Blackbeard, the pirate king?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Blackbeard, the pirate king takes around 7m to finish. The book has 1,200 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Blackbeard, the pirate king have an AR quiz?
Yes — Blackbeard, the pirate king 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 Blackbeard, the pirate king?
Blackbeard, the pirate king has an AR reading level of 5.1, which places it at a 5th 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.