Into the Wilderness
by Haven Iverson
Roaring Brook Press 2026
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
Themes include stewardship
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Genre
Themes
- nature appreciation
- family bonds
- growing independence
- perseverance
- outdoor adventure
- mindfulness
- stewardship
- confidence
About this book
Each summer, a child heads into the mountains with their parents, trading streets and screens for switchbacks, wild forests, and starry campsites. As the years pass, the child takes on more responsibility—carrying their own pack, choosing snacks, and eventually helping navigate the trail. With lyrical, nature-rich moments, this picture book celebrates family time outdoors and the confidence that grows with practice. Ideal for nature-loving families and classrooms looking to spark curiosity about hiking and national parks.
Setting: the Rocky Mountains during family backpacking trips over successive summers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Into the Wilderness right for my child?
Yes — Into the Wilderness is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.5, 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 nature appreciation, family bonds, growing independence.
How long does it take to read Into the Wilderness?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Into the Wilderness takes around 3m to finish. The book has 350 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Into the Wilderness have an AR quiz?
Yes — Into the Wilderness 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 Into the Wilderness?
Into the Wilderness has an AR reading level of 2.5, 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.