Elijah of Buxton
Scholastic Paperbacks 2007
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- freedom
- courage
- justice
- community
- coming of age
- identity
- resilience
- hope
About this book
Set in 1859, this novel follows Elijah Freeman, the first child born free in the settlement of Buxton, Canada, a safe haven for people who escaped slavery. When a lying preacher steals money meant to buy a family’s freedom, Elijah must summon courage and cleverness to set things right. Blending humor, heart, and suspense, the story brings history to life through Elijah’s unforgettable voice. Perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy rich characters, historical adventures, and stories about justice and bravery.
Setting: Buxton, Canada West (Ontario) and the U.S. borderlands, 1859
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Elijah of Buxton right for my child?
Yes — Elijah of Buxton is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.4, which is typical for 5th 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 freedom, courage, justice.
How long does it take to read Elijah of Buxton?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Elijah of Buxton takes around 8.3h to finish. The book has 82,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Elijah of Buxton have an AR quiz?
Yes — Elijah of Buxton has an AR quiz available, worth 12 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 Elijah of Buxton?
Elijah of Buxton has an AR reading level of 5.4, which places it at a 5th 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.