Growing Up Pedro: Candlewick Biographies
How the Martinez Brothers Made It from the Dominican Republic All the Way to the Major Leagues
by Matt Tavares
Candlewick Press (MA) 2017
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- perseverance
- family and brotherhood
- dreams and ambition
- mentorship
- sportsmanship
- resilience
- immigrant experience
About this book
This picture-book biography traces Pedro Martínez’s journey from playing ball in Manoguayabo, Dominican Republic, to becoming a superstar pitcher in the major leagues—all with help and inspiration from his older brother, Ramón. Matt Tavares blends energetic art with clear, engaging text to show how hard work, family support, and dedication can fuel big dreams. Baseball fans will love the behind-the-scenes feel and inspiring moments on and off the field. A great pick for grades 2–5, especially readers who enjoy true sports stories and biographies.
Setting: Manoguayabo, Dominican Republic, and various U.S. Major League ballparks (1980s–2000s)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Growing Up Pedro: Candlewick Biographies right for my child?
Yes — Growing Up Pedro: Candlewick Biographies is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.8, 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 perseverance, family and brotherhood, dreams and ambition.
How long does it take to read Growing Up Pedro: Candlewick Biographies?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Growing Up Pedro: Candlewick Biographies takes around 16m to finish. The book has 2,400 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Growing Up Pedro: Candlewick Biographies have an AR quiz?
Yes — Growing Up Pedro: Candlewick Biographies 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 Growing Up Pedro: Candlewick Biographies?
Growing Up Pedro: Candlewick Biographies has an AR reading level of 4.8, 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.