Cool as ice
by Paul Mantell
Little, Brown and Co. 2001
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- teamwork
- sportsmanship
- handling pressure
- rivalry
- self-confidence
- perseverance
- family expectations
- friendship
About this book
A talented middle-school skater gets his big chance on a competitive hockey team, but staying cool under pressure is harder than he expected. Between a tough new coach, a cocky rival, and high expectations at home, he has to learn how to keep his head and play as part of a team. Fast-paced game action and a relatable look at nerves, friendship, and sportsmanship make this an engaging read for hockey fans and athletes alike.
Setting: suburban New England, youth ice hockey rinks in winter
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cool as ice right for my child?
Yes — Cool as ice is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.3, 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 teamwork, sportsmanship, handling pressure.
How long does it take to read Cool as ice?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Cool as ice takes around 3.5h to finish. The book has 32,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Cool as ice have an AR quiz?
Yes — Cool as ice has an AR quiz available, worth 4 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 Cool as ice?
Cool as ice has an AR reading level of 4.3, 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.