Last Dragon
by Susan Nunes
Clarion Books 1995
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- family heritage
- courage
- tradition and culture
- community
- intergenerational bonds
- identity
- celebration
- perseverance
About this book
Set in Hawaii, this picture book follows a child and a beloved elder as they prepare a traditional dragon for a community celebration. Through stories, practice, and pride, the child learns about family heritage and the meaning behind the dragon dance. Warm, evocative scenes bring the culture of Chinatown and island life to life. A gentle, affirming read for young listeners who enjoy stories about traditions and family bonds.
Setting: Honolulu’s Chinatown, contemporary Hawaii
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Last Dragon right for my child?
Yes — Last Dragon is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.3, which is typical for 3rd 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 family heritage, courage, tradition and culture.
How long does it take to read Last Dragon?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Last Dragon takes around 7m to finish. The book has 1,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Last Dragon have an AR quiz?
Yes — Last Dragon 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 Last Dragon?
Last Dragon has an AR reading level of 3.3, which places it at a 3rd 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.