Boss of the plains
by Laurie M. Carlson
DK Ink/DK Pub. 1998
Challenging read for K–3rd grade
Reading level 5.5 (5th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range
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Genre
Themes
- innovation
- perseverance
- entrepreneurship
- problem-solving
- frontier life
- ingenuity
- American West
- design and engineering
About this book
This engaging nonfiction picture book tells the story of how hatmaker John B. Stetson designed the durable "Boss of the Plains"—the cowboy hat that became an icon of the American West. Laurie M. Carlson traces Stetson’s journey from illness to innovation, showing how observation and problem‑solving led to a better hat for harsh frontier conditions. Clear text and period details make history come alive for young readers. Kids who enjoy true stories about inventions and how things are made will be drawn to this blend of biography and American history.
Setting: the American West and Philadelphia, late 19th century
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boss of the plains right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Boss of the plains. The reading level is AR 5.5, 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 innovation, perseverance, entrepreneurship.
How long does it take to read Boss of the plains?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Boss of the plains takes around 10m to finish. The book has 1,700 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Boss of the plains have an AR quiz?
Yes — Boss of the plains 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 Boss of the plains?
Boss of the plains has an AR reading level of 5.5, 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.