King Midas
by John W. Stewig
Holiday House 1999
Challenging read for K–3rd grade
Reading level 4.3 (4th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range
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Genre
Themes
- greed and consequences
- gratitude
- family and love
- wisdom and humility
- responsibility
- wishes and magic
- contentment
About this book
This richly told retelling of the King Midas myth follows a ruler who wishes for everything he touches to turn to gold—and discovers the unexpected costs of getting exactly what he wants. Lyrical language and dramatic, detailed illustrations bring the classic tale to life for young readers. Perfect for elementary students exploring myths and folktales, it offers a gentle, memorable lesson about valuing what truly matters. Kids are captivated by the magical transformations and the satisfying moral at the end.
Setting: ancient Greece/Phrygia, a royal palace
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is King Midas right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for King Midas. The reading level is AR 4.3, which is typical for 4th 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 greed and consequences, gratitude, family and love.
How long does it take to read King Midas?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, King Midas takes around 9m to finish. The book has 1,300 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does King Midas have an AR quiz?
Yes — King Midas 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 King Midas?
King Midas has an AR reading level of 4.3, which places it at a 4th 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.