Hurt Go Happy
by Ginny Rorby
Doherty Associates, LLC, Tom 2006
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.2 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- communication and language
- disability and accessibility
- animal rights and ethics
- courage
- self-advocacy
- family dynamics
- empathy and compassion
- friendship
About this book
Thirteen-year-old Joey Willis, who is deaf, has been kept from learning sign language by her well-meaning but fearful mother. When Joey secretly befriends an elderly neighbor and his signing chimpanzee, a new world of communication opens to her. As their bond deepens, Joey must find the courage to stand up for herself and for the animal she loves. Readers are drawn to the heartfelt relationships, ethical questions about animals, and an inspiring journey toward finding one’s voice.
Setting: contemporary Northern California
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hurt Go Happy right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Hurt Go Happy. The reading level is AR 4.2, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include communication and language, disability and accessibility, animal rights and ethics.
How long does it take to read Hurt Go Happy?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Hurt Go Happy takes around 8.2h to finish. The book has 74,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Hurt Go Happy have an AR quiz?
Yes — Hurt Go Happy has an AR quiz available, worth 11 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 Hurt Go Happy?
Hurt Go Happy has an AR reading level of 4.2, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — 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.