Dog Man: Big Jim Begins: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #13): From the Creator of Captain Underpants
by Dav Pilkey
Scholastic Inc. 2024
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- heroism
- second chances
- good vs. evil
- teamwork
- believing in yourself
- empathy
- responsibility
About this book
This high-energy graphic novel dives into the origins of Big Jim and other fan-favorite characters as Dog Man and his friends face a new threat from the Space Cuties. Packed with slapstick humor, fast-paced action, and Dav Pilkey’s signature heart, it highlights kindness, courage, and second chances. It’s perfect for emerging and reluctant readers who love comics and heroic pets. Kids will enjoy the bold art, quick laughs, and positive messages about believing in yourself and doing what’s right.
Setting: a contemporary city with police headquarters, schools, and zany sci-fi threats
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dog Man: Big Jim Begins: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #13): From the Creator of Captain Underpants right for my child?
Yes — Dog Man: Big Jim Begins: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #13): From the Creator of Captain Underpants is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.7, which is typical for 2nd 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 friendship, heroism, second chances.
How long does it take to read Dog Man: Big Jim Begins: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #13): From the Creator of Captain Underpants?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Dog Man: Big Jim Begins: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #13): From the Creator of Captain Underpants takes around 1.3h to finish. The book has 9,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Dog Man: Big Jim Begins: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #13): From the Creator of Captain Underpants have an AR quiz?
Yes — Dog Man: Big Jim Begins: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #13): From the Creator of Captain Underpants has an AR quiz available, worth 2 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 Dog Man: Big Jim Begins: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #13): From the Creator of Captain Underpants?
Dog Man: Big Jim Begins: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #13): From the Creator of Captain Underpants has an AR reading level of 2.7, which places it at a 2nd 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.