Journey of the Sparrows
Dell 1993
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.6 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- immigration
- family bonds
- courage
- resilience
- hope
- identity
- injustice
- survival
About this book
A Salvadoran family risks everything to flee violence and make a new life in the United States. Told through the eyes of a teenage girl, the story follows siblings as they endure a dangerous journey, hide from la migra, and search for work and safety in Chicago. Readers see the power of family, faith, and friendship in the face of fear and uncertainty. Accessible and heartfelt, it’s a strong choice for middle schoolers interested in immigration stories and social justice.
Setting: from El Salvador to Chicago, late 1980s–early 1990s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Journey of the Sparrows right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Journey of the Sparrows. The reading level is AR 4.6, 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 immigration, family bonds, courage.
How long does it take to read Journey of the Sparrows?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Journey of the Sparrows takes around 3.3h to finish. The book has 30,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Journey of the Sparrows have an AR quiz?
Yes — Journey of the Sparrows 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 Journey of the Sparrows?
Journey of the Sparrows has an AR reading level of 4.6, 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.