Counting sheep
by Julie Glass
Random House 2000
Great fit for 1st grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- bedtime routines
- counting and numbers
- imagination
- humor
- patience
- comfort and reassurance
About this book
When a sleepy child starts counting sheep to drift off, those woolly jumpers turn silly and lively, making bedtime a lot more fun than expected. Simple sentences and playful illustrations support new readers as they practice number words and early reading skills. It’s a cozy, humorous bedtime read that helps make winding down feel friendly and familiar. Perfect for preschoolers and early elementary kids who enjoy gentle laughs before lights out.
Setting: a child’s bedroom at night
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Counting sheep right for my child?
Yes — Counting sheep is a great fit for 1st grade. The reading level is AR 1.4, which is typical for 1st 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 bedtime routines, counting and numbers, imagination.
How long does it take to read Counting sheep?
At a typical 1st grade reading pace, Counting sheep takes around 4m to finish. The book has 350 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Counting sheep have an AR quiz?
Yes — Counting sheep 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 Counting sheep?
Counting sheep has an AR reading level of 1.4, which places it at a 1st 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.