Just like Martin
by Ossie Davis
Jump at the Sun/Hyperion Books for Children 1992
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Themes include nonviolence, racism and injustice
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Genre
Themes
- civil rights
- nonviolence
- courage
- racism and injustice
- activism
- family conflict
- identity
- hope
About this book
Set during the Civil Rights Movement, this novel follows a determined African American teenager who longs to follow the nonviolent example of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Despite his father’s fears, he is drawn to marches, sit-ins, and the hard choices that come with standing up for justice. Readers see how courage, faith, and community shape his path as he learns what it really means to commit to change. A powerful, accessible story for middle-grade readers interested in history, social justice, and finding their voice.
Setting: the American South during the early 1960s Civil Rights Movement
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Just like Martin right for my child?
Yes — Just like Martin is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.9, 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 civil rights, nonviolence, courage.
How long does it take to read Just like Martin?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Just like Martin takes around 6.5h to finish. The book has 58,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Just like Martin have an AR quiz?
Yes — Just like Martin has an AR quiz available, worth 6 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 Just like Martin?
Just like Martin has an AR reading level of 4.9, 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.