Colin Powell
by John Passaro
Child's World 2000
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- leadership
- perseverance
- service and duty
- integrity
- overcoming obstacles
- patriotism
- role models
- determination
About this book
This short, photo-rich biography introduces readers to Colin Powell’s journey from a New York City childhood to becoming a four-star general and influential national leader. Clear chapters highlight key moments in his military career, the values that shaped him, and the challenges he overcame. With accessible text and supportive visuals, it’s a strong pick for reports and for readers curious about modern American history and leadership. Ideal for upper elementary and early middle school students.
Setting: United States and international military posts, mid-to-late 20th century
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Colin Powell right for my child?
Yes — Colin Powell 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 leadership, perseverance, service and duty.
How long does it take to read Colin Powell?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Colin Powell takes around 18m to finish. The book has 3,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Colin Powell have an AR quiz?
Yes — Colin Powell 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 Colin Powell?
Colin Powell 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.