I'm Growing Great
by Mechal Renee Roe
Doubleday Books for Young Readers 2024
Great fit for 1st grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- self-confidence
- self-love
- identity and pride
- growth mindset
- Black joy
- nature and renewal
- positive affirmations
- celebrating natural hair
About this book
This bright, rhythmic picture book celebrates Black and Brown girls as they grow in confidence, kindness, and joy. Short, affirming lines pair with lush, flower-filled art to encourage kids to see their beauty inside and out. It’s a gentle read-aloud for building self-esteem and a growth mindset, perfect for preschool and early elementary. Families love its positive messages, vibrant illustrations, and the way it invites kids to speak their own affirmations.
Setting: contemporary, nature-filled outdoor scenes and colorful, stylized backdrops
Frequently Asked Questions
Is I'm Growing Great right for my child?
Yes — I'm Growing Great is a great fit for 1st grade. The reading level is AR 1.6, which is typical for 1st 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 self-confidence, self-love, identity and pride.
How long does it take to read I'm Growing Great?
At a typical 1st grade reading pace, I'm Growing Great takes around 2m to finish. The book has 180 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does I'm Growing Great have an AR quiz?
Yes — I'm Growing Great 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 I'm Growing Great?
I'm Growing Great has an AR reading level of 1.6, which places it at a 1st 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.