Dad and Sam
by John L. Shefelbine
Scholastic 1997
Great fit for Kindergarten
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- family
- father–child bonding
- confidence
- everyday life
- phonics and early reading
- cooperation
- kindness
About this book
Dad and Sam is a very short, decodable story for brand-new readers that uses simple short-a words and lots of repetition. Sam and his dad share everyday moments together, helping children practice phonics while enjoying a warm father–child relationship. The predictable pattern and friendly illustrations build confidence, making it ideal for kindergarten and first-grade readers. Families and teachers like it because kids can sound out nearly every word on their own.
Setting: everyday home and neighborhood
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dad and Sam right for my child?
Yes — Dad and Sam is a great fit for Kindergarten. The reading level is AR 0.3, which is typical for Kindergarten. 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 family, father–child bonding, confidence.
How long does it take to read Dad and Sam?
At a typical Kindergarten reading pace, Dad and Sam takes around 2m to finish. The book has 80 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Dad and Sam have an AR quiz?
Yes — Dad and Sam 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 Dad and Sam?
Dad and Sam has an AR reading level of 0.3, which places it at a Kindergarten 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.