Herbert Rowbarge
Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR) 2010
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 6.2 (6th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- ambition
- family
- love
- secrets
- loneliness
- belonging
- consequences
About this book
From the author of Tuck Everlasting comes the story of Herbert Rowbarge, a self-made man who builds a dazzling amusement park yet struggles to feel whole. Told with Babbitt’s trademark clarity and depth, the novel follows Herbert’s guarded life, his twin daughters, and the secrets that shaped his rise. Readers are drawn in by the mysterious past, the vivid setting of the Pleasure Dome, and big questions about identity and love. It’s a thoughtful, character-driven read best for older tweens and teens who enjoy literary, reflective stories.
Setting: a small American town and its spectacular amusement park, mid-20th century
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Herbert Rowbarge right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Herbert Rowbarge. The reading level is AR 6.2, which is typical for 6th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include identity, ambition, family.
How long does it take to read Herbert Rowbarge?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Herbert Rowbarge takes around 5.0h to finish. The book has 52,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Herbert Rowbarge have an AR quiz?
Yes — Herbert Rowbarge has an AR quiz available, worth 8 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 Herbert Rowbarge?
Herbert Rowbarge has an AR reading level of 6.2, which places it at a 6th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — 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.