Dian Fossey and the mountain gorillas
by Jane A. Schott
Carolrhoda Books 2000
Great fit for 6th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- wildlife conservation
- perseverance
- scientific inquiry
- human–animal connection
- courage
- ethics in research
- respect for nature
- activism
About this book
This concise biography introduces Dian Fossey, the pioneering primatologist who devoted her life to studying and protecting Rwanda’s mountain gorillas. Readers learn how careful observation, patience, and respect helped her earn the gorillas’ trust and reveal their family lives. Clear text and photographs make complex science approachable while highlighting real-world conservation challenges. A strong choice for animal lovers and budding scientists who enjoy true stories of discovery and protection of wildlife.
Setting: Volcanoes National Park in the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda, late 1960s–1980s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dian Fossey and the mountain gorillas right for my child?
Yes — Dian Fossey and the mountain gorillas is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6.1, which is typical for 6th 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 wildlife conservation, perseverance, scientific inquiry.
How long does it take to read Dian Fossey and the mountain gorillas?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Dian Fossey and the mountain gorillas takes around 23m to finish. The book has 4,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Dian Fossey and the mountain gorillas have an AR quiz?
Yes — Dian Fossey and the mountain gorillas 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 Dian Fossey and the mountain gorillas?
Dian Fossey and the mountain gorillas has an AR reading level of 6.1, which places it at a 6th 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.