Let's talk about race
by Julius Lester, Julius Lester, Karen Barbour
Harper Collins 2008
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
Themes include anti-racism
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- diversity
- respect
- empathy
- anti-racism
- self-acceptance
- community
- open dialogue
About this book
Author Julius Lester invites children to think about the story each of us carries and how race is only one chapter of that story. With vibrant, folk-art illustrations by Karen Barbour, the book opens a gentle, honest conversation about identity, similarities and differences, and respect. It’s excellent for family read-alouds and classroom discussions in the primary grades. Kids are drawn to the colorful art and the empowering message that everyone’s story matters.
Setting: contemporary, conversational picture book exploring identity in everyday life
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Let's talk about race right for my child?
Yes — Let's talk about race is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.8, 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 identity, diversity, respect.
How long does it take to read Let's talk about race?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Let's talk about race takes around 7m to finish. The book has 1,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Let's talk about race have an AR quiz?
Yes — Let's talk about race 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 Let's talk about race?
Let's talk about race has an AR reading level of 3.8, 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.