I'm Tougher Than Asthma!
by Siri M. Carter, Alden R. Carter
Albert Whitman & Company 1999
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- resilience
- self-advocacy
- coping with illness
- family support
- health and wellness
- courage
- empowerment
About this book
A young girl shares what it’s like to live with asthma—and how she doesn’t let it stop her from doing the things she loves. With clear, reassuring language, she explains triggers, doctor visits, and how tools like inhalers help her feel better. The upbeat, empowering message shows kids they can be brave, informed, and in charge of their health. Great for families looking to build understanding and confidence around asthma.
Setting: contemporary home, school, and doctor’s office
Frequently Asked Questions
Is I'm Tougher Than Asthma! right for my child?
Yes — I'm Tougher Than Asthma! is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.8, 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 resilience, self-advocacy, coping with illness.
How long does it take to read I'm Tougher Than Asthma!?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, I'm Tougher Than Asthma! takes around 7m to finish. The book has 800 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does I'm Tougher Than Asthma! have an AR quiz?
Yes — I'm Tougher Than Asthma! 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 Tougher Than Asthma!?
I'm Tougher Than Asthma! has an AR reading level of 2.8, 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.