Deep down Popular
by Phoebe Stone
Scholastic 2010
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- popularity
- self-acceptance
- loyalty
- identity
- small-town life
- kindness and empathy
- fitting in
About this book
In a small Virginia town, tomboy Jessie Lou can’t stand Conrad Parker Smith—the most popular boy in school—until a twist of fate puts her in charge of helping him after he’s injured. As the two spend time together, Jessie Lou begins to see beyond surface popularity and questions what really matters. With humor and heart, this story explores friendship, belonging, and finding confidence in who you are. Perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy realistic, character-driven stories set in everyday communities.
Setting: small-town Virginia, contemporary
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Deep down Popular right for my child?
Yes — Deep down Popular is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.8, 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 friendship, popularity, self-acceptance.
How long does it take to read Deep down Popular?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Deep down Popular takes around 6.5h to finish. The book has 58,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Deep down Popular have an AR quiz?
Yes — Deep down Popular has an AR quiz available, worth 8 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 Deep down Popular?
Deep down Popular has an AR reading level of 4.8, 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.