Laughing Latkes
Farrar, Straus & Giroux (BYR) 1980
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- Hanukkah traditions
- family
- humor
- imagination
- celebration
- Jewish culture
- food
About this book
In this playful Hanukkah picture book, the narrator wonders why the latkes seem to be laughing—offering silly, imaginative possibilities that will make young readers giggle. Simple text and warm, expressive art capture the joy of holiday traditions in a cozy kitchen setting. It’s a light, humorous read-aloud perfect for families celebrating Hanukkah or for classrooms learning about Jewish holidays. Early readers will enjoy the repetition and gentle wordplay.
Setting: a cozy Jewish home and kitchen during Hanukkah
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Laughing Latkes right for my child?
Yes — Laughing Latkes is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.6, which is typical for 2nd 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 Hanukkah traditions, family, humor.
How long does it take to read Laughing Latkes?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Laughing Latkes takes around 4m to finish. The book has 500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Laughing Latkes have an AR quiz?
Yes — Laughing Latkes 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 Laughing Latkes?
Laughing Latkes has an AR reading level of 2.6, which places it at a 2nd 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.