Hank the Cowdog and monkey business
Puffin 2017
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- loyalty
- responsibility
- problem-solving
- perseverance
- mischief
- ranch life
- bravery
About this book
Head of Ranch Security Hank the Cowdog is certain something fishy is afoot when a mischievous monkey stirs up trouble on the ranch. With Drover at his side and his trademark overconfidence, Hank blunders, bluffs, and sniffs out clues in a laugh-out-loud mystery. Short, fast-paced chapters and Hank’s goofy voice make this a great pick for grades 3–6, especially reluctant readers. Fans love the slapstick humor, ranch setting, and the loyal, if hapless, hero-dog narrator.
Setting: a Texas cattle ranch, present day
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hank the Cowdog and monkey business right for my child?
Yes — Hank the Cowdog and monkey business is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.7, 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, loyalty, responsibility.
How long does it take to read Hank the Cowdog and monkey business?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Hank the Cowdog and monkey business takes around 2.5h to finish. The book has 22,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Hank the Cowdog and monkey business have an AR quiz?
Yes — Hank the Cowdog and monkey business has an AR quiz available, worth 3 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 Hank the Cowdog and monkey business?
Hank the Cowdog and monkey business has an AR reading level of 4.7, 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.