Kitty from the start
by Judy Delton
Houghton Mifflin 1987
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- identity
- family dynamics
- fitting in
- self-acceptance
- new beginnings
- school life
- growing up
About this book
Kitty wants a fresh start, but beginning middle school brings more questions than answers. Between shifting friendships, family expectations, and figuring out who she wants to be, she learns that starting over isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being honest and brave. Judy Delton’s warm, funny voice makes everyday dilemmas feel real and relatable. Great for readers who enjoy realistic school stories with heart.
Setting: suburban Midwest, contemporary (1980s)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kitty from the start right for my child?
Yes — Kitty from the start 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 friendship, identity, family dynamics.
How long does it take to read Kitty from the start?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Kitty from the start takes around 3.5h to finish. The book has 32,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Kitty from the start have an AR quiz?
Yes — Kitty from the start 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 Kitty from the start?
Kitty from the start 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.