How to Be Cool in the Third Grade
by Betsy Duffey
Tandem Library 1993
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- fitting in
- self-acceptance
- friendship
- bullying
- confidence
- school life
- empathy
About this book
Robbie York is starting third grade with one big goal: to finally be cool. He makes a plan—new clothes, a tougher attitude, and no more trouble from school bully Bo Haney. But as his ideas backfire in funny ways, Robbie learns that being yourself might be the coolest thing of all. This light, relatable school story is perfect for new chapter-book readers who enjoy humor and everyday adventures.
Setting: a suburban elementary school, early 1990s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is How to Be Cool in the Third Grade right for my child?
Yes — How to Be Cool in the Third Grade is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.5, which is typical for 3rd grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include fitting in, self-acceptance, friendship.
How long does it take to read How to Be Cool in the Third Grade?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, How to Be Cool in the Third Grade takes around 1.1h to finish. The book has 9,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does How to Be Cool in the Third Grade have an AR quiz?
Yes — How to Be Cool in the Third Grade 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 How to Be Cool in the Third Grade?
How to Be Cool in the Third Grade has an AR reading level of 3.5, which places it at a 3rd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — 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.