How to Read a Story
(Illustrated Children's Book, Picture Book for Kids, Read Aloud Kindergarten Books)
by Kate Messner
Chronicle Books 2015
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- love of reading
- friendship
- family and community
- imagination
- confidence
- habits and routines
About this book
This playful picture book shows kids, step by step, how to dive into a story—pick a good book, find a cozy spot, choose a reading buddy, and use your best read‑aloud voice. With warm, inviting art and simple guidance, it celebrates the joy of predicting, wondering, and turning pages together. Perfect for preschool through early elementary, it’s a gentle nudge that the end of one book is really the beginning of a lifelong love of reading. Families and classrooms will love sharing it as a read‑aloud.
Setting: contemporary homes, libraries, and cozy reading spots
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is How to Read a Story right for my child?
Yes — How to Read a Story is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.3, which is typical for 2nd 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 love of reading, friendship, family and community.
How long does it take to read How to Read a Story?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, How to Read a Story takes around 5m to finish. The book has 600 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does How to Read a Story have an AR quiz?
Yes — How to Read a Story has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 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 How to Read a Story?
How to Read a Story has an AR reading level of 2.3, which places it at a 2nd 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.