Jethro and Joel Were a Troll
by Bill Peet
Houghton Mifflin 1987
Challenging read for K–3rd grade
Reading level 4.1 (4th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range
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Genre
Themes
- sibling rivalry
- teamwork
- cooperation
- self-acceptance
- problem-solving
- empathy
- consequences
- humor
About this book
Bill Peet’s rhyming tale follows Jethro and Joel, a quarrelsome two-headed troll who can’t seem to agree on anything—until trouble forces them to think as one. With lively illustrations and playful language, the story balances mischief and heart. Young readers enjoy the humor of a bickering duo and the satisfying moments when cooperation wins out. It’s a great pick for read-alouds and for children ready to stretch into longer picture-book stories.
Setting: a storybook countryside of forests, mountains, and a bridge
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jethro and Joel Were a Troll right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Jethro and Joel Were a Troll. The reading level is AR 4.1, which is typical for 4th 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 sibling rivalry, teamwork, cooperation.
How long does it take to read Jethro and Joel Were a Troll?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Jethro and Joel Were a Troll takes around 10m to finish. The book has 1,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Jethro and Joel Were a Troll have an AR quiz?
Yes — Jethro and Joel Were a Troll 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 Jethro and Joel Were a Troll?
Jethro and Joel Were a Troll has an AR reading level of 4.1, which places it at a 4th 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.