Catcher with a glass arm
Tandem Library 1985
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- perseverance
- self-confidence
- teamwork
- sportsmanship
- overcoming fear
- pressure and anxiety
- friendship
- honesty
About this book
A young catcher loves the game but struggles with a shaky throwing arm that keeps him from making the big plays. As pressure mounts from his team and opponents, he has to face his fears, rebuild his confidence, and learn to trust his skills. Fast-paced game action and relatable locker-room dynamics keep readers turning pages. Perfect for sports fans in grades 3–6 who enjoy realistic stories about perseverance and teamwork.
Setting: youth baseball league in a contemporary small-town setting
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Catcher with a glass arm right for my child?
Yes — Catcher with a glass arm is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.2, which is typical for 4th 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 perseverance, self-confidence, teamwork.
How long does it take to read Catcher with a glass arm?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Catcher with a glass arm takes around 2.3h to finish. The book has 21,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Catcher with a glass arm have an AR quiz?
Yes — Catcher with a glass arm has an AR quiz available, worth 3 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 Catcher with a glass arm?
Catcher with a glass arm has an AR reading level of 4.2, which places it at a 4th 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.