Ludlow Laughs
by Jon Agee
Farrar, Straus & Giroux (BYR) 1985
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- laughter
- dreams
- community
- empathy
- joy
- kindness
- optimism
About this book
Ludlow is a famously grumpy fellow who never laughs—except in his sleep. Each night his booming, joyful laughter ripples around the world and makes everyone smile, until one evening the laughter suddenly stops. Neighbors and strangers try all sorts of silly ways to bring the giggles back. This gently absurd picture book delights young readers with its expressive art, playful tone, and the contagious fun of a good laugh.
Setting: a contemporary city apartment and the wider world at night
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ludlow Laughs right for my child?
Yes — Ludlow Laughs is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.3, 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 laughter, dreams, community.
How long does it take to read Ludlow Laughs?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Ludlow Laughs takes around 5m to finish. The book has 550 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Ludlow Laughs have an AR quiz?
Yes — Ludlow Laughs 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 Ludlow Laughs?
Ludlow Laughs has an AR reading level of 2.3, 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.