In Search of Mockingbird
by Loretta Ellsworth
Square Fish 2015
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
- grief and healing
- identity
- mother–daughter bond
- independence
- courage
- power of literature
- self-discovery
- road trip
About this book
After finding a worn copy of To Kill a Mockingbird among her late mother’s things, Erin boards a bus from Minnesota to Alabama hoping Harper Lee can help her understand the woman she never knew. Along the way she meets quirky travelers, faces tough choices, and begins to find her own voice. This heartfelt road-trip story blends grief, hope, and a love of books. It’s a great pick for middle school and early high school readers who enjoy character-driven journeys and literary connections.
Setting: A contemporary bus journey from Minnesota to Monroeville, Alabama
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is In Search of Mockingbird right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for In Search of Mockingbird. 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 grief and healing, identity, mother–daughter bond.
How long does it take to read In Search of Mockingbird?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, In Search of Mockingbird takes around 6.5h to finish. The book has 58,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does In Search of Mockingbird have an AR quiz?
Yes — In Search of Mockingbird has an AR quiz available, worth 8 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 In Search of Mockingbird?
In Search of Mockingbird 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.