I be somebody
by Hadley Irwin
Atheneum 1984
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.9 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Themes include racism and prejudice
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- perseverance
- poverty and class
- racism and prejudice
- family responsibility
- mentorship
- dreams and ambition
About this book
A determined teen growing up in a Midwestern city decides he won’t be defined by where he’s from. With a strong voice and an eye for the future, he juggles school, family pressures, and the pull of the streets while searching for real opportunities to prove himself. Support from unexpected places helps him confront prejudice and tough choices. Readers connect to the honesty, grit, and hope at the heart of his story.
Setting: a Midwestern American city, 1980s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is I be somebody right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for I be somebody. The reading level is AR 4.9, which is typical for 4th 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, perseverance, poverty and class.
How long does it take to read I be somebody?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, I be somebody takes around 5.5h to finish. The book has 49,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does I be somebody have an AR quiz?
Yes — I be somebody has an AR quiz available, worth 7 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 I be somebody?
I be somebody has an AR reading level of 4.9, which places it at a 4th 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.