Gypsy
by Al Nussbaum
Bt Bound 1979
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.2 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- choices and consequences
- loyalty
- trust
- survival
- second chances
About this book
A fast, gritty short novel about a street‑smart teen known as Gypsy who’s used to living on the move. When a new connection drags him toward a dangerous scheme, he has to decide who to trust and what kind of person he wants to be. Clear prose, short chapters, and steady suspense make it a strong pick for reluctant readers. Best for middle school and early high school students who like realistic, high‑stakes stories.
Setting: a gritty American city, late 1970s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gypsy right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Gypsy. The reading level is AR 4.2, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include identity, choices and consequences, loyalty.
How long does it take to read Gypsy?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Gypsy takes around 1.1h to finish. The book has 9,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Gypsy have an AR quiz?
Yes — Gypsy has an AR quiz available, worth 1 point. 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 Gypsy?
Gypsy has an AR reading level of 4.2, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — 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.