Hearts, cupids, and red roses
by Edna Barth
Houghton Mifflin (Jp) 1998
Great fit for 6th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- holiday traditions
- folklore and mythology
- symbols and meanings
- cultural history
- love and friendship
- customs across cultures
About this book
This engaging nonfiction book traces the origins of Valentine’s Day and explains how hearts, cupids, and red roses became its most familiar symbols. Edna Barth blends history, folklore, and legend with clear, lively writing and period illustrations. It’s a great fit for curious middle-grade readers who enjoy learning the stories behind holidays and traditions. Kids appreciate the fun facts and surprising connections across cultures and time.
Setting: various countries and historical periods surrounding the origins of Valentine’s Day
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hearts, cupids, and red roses right for my child?
Yes — Hearts, cupids, and red roses is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6.6, which is typical for 6th 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 holiday traditions, folklore and mythology, symbols and meanings.
How long does it take to read Hearts, cupids, and red roses?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Hearts, cupids, and red roses takes around 57m to finish. The book has 10,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Hearts, cupids, and red roses have an AR quiz?
Yes — Hearts, cupids, and red roses 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 Hearts, cupids, and red roses?
Hearts, cupids, and red roses has an AR reading level of 6.6, which places it at a 6th 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.