King of the pygmies
by Jonathon Scott Fuqua
Candlewick Press 2007
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5.2 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- mental health and stigma
- identity
- family dynamics
- self-acceptance
- perception vs. reality
- trust
- isolation and belonging
- coming of age
About this book
A thoughtful, edgy contemporary novel about a teen who suddenly begins hearing other people’s thoughts and fears he’s developing the same mental illness that haunts his family. When a mysterious neighbor suggests there may be another explanation, he’s torn between doctors who want to medicate him and the possibility that he isn’t sick at all. The story explores the thin line between perception and reality, and how stigma can shape the choices we make. It’s a compelling read for older teens who like psychological realism with a hint of the uncanny.
Setting: a contemporary small-town community on the Mid-Atlantic coast
Frequently Asked Questions
Is King of the pygmies right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for King of the pygmies. The reading level is AR 5.2, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include mental health and stigma, identity, family dynamics.
How long does it take to read King of the pygmies?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, King of the pygmies takes around 6.9h to finish. The book has 68,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does King of the pygmies have an AR quiz?
Yes — King of the pygmies has an AR quiz available, worth 10 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 of the pygmies?
King of the pygmies has an AR reading level of 5.2, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — 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.