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The AR Booklist
BMX racing book cover

BMX racing

by Bill Gutman

Capstone Press 1995

Great fit for 5th grade

Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14

5th grade English
48
Pages
0.5
AR Points
28m
Read time
AR Quiz Available
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Genre

Nonfiction

Themes

  • sportsmanship
  • perseverance
  • goal-setting
  • competition
  • safety and responsibility
  • skill-building
  • confidence
  • healthy risk-taking

About this book

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces readers to the fast-paced world of BMX racing. It explains the bikes, gear, track features, and how races are run, with safety tips and snapshots of training and competition. Clear text and action shots make it an easy entry point for sports fans and reluctant readers alike. Perfect for upper-elementary and middle grade kids who love speed, stunts, and learning how a sport works.

Setting: modern BMX tracks and competitions, 1990s

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BMX racing right for my child?

Yes — BMX racing is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.1, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 9–14 (4th–8th grade). Themes include sportsmanship, perseverance, goal-setting.

How long does it take to read BMX racing?

At a typical 5th grade reading pace, BMX racing takes around 28m to finish. The book has 4,700 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.

Does BMX racing have an AR quiz?

Yes — BMX racing 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 BMX racing?

BMX racing has an AR reading level of 5.1, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8) — 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.