Keeping the City Going
by Brian Floca
Simon and Schuster 2021
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- gratitude
- community helpers
- resilience
- hope
- kindness
- civic responsibility
- city life
About this book
In this warmly illustrated picture book, Brian Floca thanks the essential workers who kept city life running during the COVID-19 shutdowns. From delivery drivers and transit operators to healthcare workers and grocers, children see the everyday heroes who helped their communities. Simple, reassuring text pairs with detailed city scenes that invite careful looking and discussion. A comforting read-aloud for young readers and families that highlights gratitude, community, and hope.
Setting: a contemporary city during the COVID-19 pandemic
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Keeping the City Going right for my child?
Yes — Keeping the City Going is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.4, which is typical for 2nd 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 gratitude, community helpers, resilience.
How long does it take to read Keeping the City Going?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Keeping the City Going takes around 5m to finish. The book has 600 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Keeping the City Going have an AR quiz?
Yes — Keeping the City Going 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 Keeping the City Going?
Keeping the City Going has an AR reading level of 2.4, which places it at a 2nd 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.