If I Could Fly
Farrar Straus & Giroux 2011
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.9 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- family separation
- coming of age
- bicultural heritage
- friendship
- resilience
- independence
- finding one’s voice
About this book
Fifteen-year-old Doris is caught between two homes and two hearts when her mother returns to Puerto Rico to heal and her father moves on. Caring for a neighbor’s rooftop pigeons and leaning on close friends, she begins to discover her own voice. This lyrical, realistic story explores identity, family change, and the courage it takes to grow up. A great pick for middle school readers who enjoy heartfelt, character-driven tales with a strong sense of culture and place.
Setting: contemporary urban New Jersey with ties to Puerto Rico
Frequently Asked Questions
Is If I Could Fly right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for If I Could Fly. The reading level is AR 4.9, 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 identity, family separation, coming of age.
How long does it take to read If I Could Fly?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, If I Could Fly takes around 3.5h to finish. The book has 31,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does If I Could Fly have an AR quiz?
Yes — If I Could Fly has an AR quiz available, worth 4 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 If I Could Fly?
If I Could Fly has an AR reading level of 4.9, 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.