Lucas Makes a Comeback
by Igor Plohl
National Geographic Books 2023
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- resilience
- disability and inclusion
- perseverance
- family support
- self-advocacy
- adaptation
- empathy
- growth mindset
About this book
After a life-changing fall, Lucas learns to navigate the world from a wheelchair and discovers new ways to do the things he loves. With help from family and friends—and a lot of grit—he adapts everyday tasks, returns to teaching, drives a car, and plays sports. Clear, reassuring text drawn from the author’s real-life experience helps children understand disability with empathy and respect. A great conversation starter for primary grades about resilience, inclusion, and problem-solving.
Setting: contemporary community life—home, school, and sports settings
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lucas Makes a Comeback right for my child?
Yes — Lucas Makes a Comeback is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.8, 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 resilience, disability and inclusion, perseverance.
How long does it take to read Lucas Makes a Comeback?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Lucas Makes a Comeback takes around 8m to finish. The book has 900 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Lucas Makes a Comeback have an AR quiz?
Yes — Lucas Makes a Comeback 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 Lucas Makes a Comeback?
Lucas Makes a Comeback has an AR reading level of 2.8, 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.