Eight Days Gone
by Linda McReynolds
Charlesbridge 2012
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- exploration
- teamwork
- courage
- innovation
- perseverance
- history
- curiosity
- space travel
About this book
This rhythmic picture book traces the Apollo 11 mission from liftoff to splashdown, introducing young readers to the first moon landing. Short, punchy lines and bold illustrations make complex ideas approachable for early elementary students. It’s a great read-aloud for space-loving kids and a clear, exciting entry point to real-world history and STEM topics. Perfect for K–3 readers who enjoy rockets, astronauts, and true adventure.
Setting: Apollo 11 mission, 1969 — from Kennedy Space Center to the Moon and back to Earth
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Eight Days Gone right for my child?
Yes — Eight Days Gone is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.9, 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 exploration, teamwork, courage.
How long does it take to read Eight Days Gone?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Eight Days Gone takes around 4m to finish. The book has 450 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Eight Days Gone have an AR quiz?
Yes — Eight Days Gone 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 Eight Days Gone?
Eight Days Gone has an AR reading level of 2.9, 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.