Jumping the Scratch
by Sarah Weeks
HarperTrophy 2008
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Themes include coping with trauma
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Genre
Themes
- memory and healing
- family
- friendship
- resilience
- secrets
- courage
- self-acceptance
- coping with trauma
About this book
After moving to a Michigan trailer park to help care for his aunt Sapphy, whose memory was damaged in an accident, Jamie Reardon wishes he could make tough memories skip like a scratched record. Being the new kid doesn’t help, and Jamie keeps a secret he’s not ready to share. With the help of an unexpected friend, he searches for ways to help Sapphy—and himself—heal. This heartfelt, accessible story suits middle-grade readers who like realistic fiction with humor, empathy, and hope.
Setting: small-town Michigan, present day
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jumping the Scratch right for my child?
Yes — Jumping the Scratch is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.7, which is typical for 4th 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 memory and healing, family, friendship.
How long does it take to read Jumping the Scratch?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Jumping the Scratch takes around 4.3h to finish. The book has 39,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Jumping the Scratch have an AR quiz?
Yes — Jumping the Scratch 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 Jumping the Scratch?
Jumping the Scratch has an AR reading level of 4.7, which places it at a 4th 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.