Double Dutch
by Sharon M. Draper
Atheneum Books for Young Readers 2002
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- teamwork
- secrets and honesty
- perseverance
- self-confidence
- family challenges
- sports competition
- trust
About this book
A tight-knit group of middle school friends trains hard for a major Double Dutch jump-rope competition while juggling pressure from school, family, and looming tests. Each of them is carrying a secret, and keeping it hidden gets harder as the championship approaches. With humor and heart, the story shows how teamwork and trust can help kids face tough challenges. Readers who enjoy realistic school stories and sports will find lots to root for here.
Setting: urban middle school and community gym in Cincinnati, Ohio, present day
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Double Dutch right for my child?
Yes — Double Dutch is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.9, 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, teamwork, secrets and honesty.
How long does it take to read Double Dutch?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Double Dutch takes around 4.0h to finish. The book has 36,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Double Dutch have an AR quiz?
Yes — Double Dutch has an AR quiz available, worth 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 Double Dutch?
Double Dutch has an AR reading level of 4.9, 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.