Laila Ali
by Geoffrey M. Horn
Gareth Stevens Pub. 2006
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- perseverance
- breaking gender barriers
- family and legacy
- self-confidence
- goal-setting
- sportsmanship
- resilience
- female empowerment
About this book
This concise biography introduces young readers to Laila Ali, a determined athlete who stepped into the boxing ring and made a name for herself beyond her famous last name. The book covers her childhood, training, and rise in women’s boxing, highlighting the hard work it takes to compete at a high level. Packed with photos, sidebars, and a timeline, it’s an accessible read for sports fans and reluctant readers alike. Kids enjoy the inspiring message about confidence, goals, and breaking barriers.
Setting: boxing gyms and arenas across the United States, late 1990s–2000s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Laila Ali right for my child?
Yes — Laila Ali is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.3, which is typical for 5th 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 perseverance, breaking gender barriers, family and legacy.
How long does it take to read Laila Ali?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Laila Ali takes around 15m to finish. The book has 2,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Laila Ali have an AR quiz?
Yes — Laila Ali 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 Laila Ali?
Laila Ali has an AR reading level of 5.3, which places it at a 5th 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.