Johnny Tremain
Yearling Books 1987
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- coming of age
- courage
- loyalty and betrayal
- freedom and independence
- identity and pride
- social class and justice
- patriotism and rebellion
- friendship
About this book
Set in revolutionary Boston, Johnny Tremain follows a talented young apprentice silversmith whose life collides with the growing fight for American independence. As he meets figures like Samuel Adams and John Hancock, Johnny must decide where his loyalties lie and what kind of person he wants to become. Rich historical detail and fast-moving events make this a gripping read for middle graders. Kids enjoy the blend of adventure, history, and a relatable coming-of-age journey.
Setting: Boston and surrounding areas during the American Revolution (1770s)
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Johnny Tremain right for my child?
Yes — Johnny Tremain is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.9, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 9–14 (4th–8th grade). Themes include coming of age, courage, loyalty and betrayal.
How long does it take to read Johnny Tremain?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Johnny Tremain takes around 8.5h to finish. The book has 84,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Johnny Tremain have an AR quiz?
Yes — Johnny Tremain has an AR quiz available, worth 13 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 Johnny Tremain?
Johnny Tremain has an AR reading level of 5.9, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8) — 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.