M109 Paladin
by David Baker
Rourke Publishing 2007
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- military technology
- teamwork
- engineering and design
- strategy and tactics
- service and duty
- courage under pressure
About this book
This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces the M109 Paladin, the U.S. Army’s self-propelled howitzer used for long‑range artillery support. Readers learn how the vehicle is designed, how its crew works together, and the role it plays on modern battlefields. Clear text, diagrams, and fast facts make it a good fit for military-vehicle fans and reluctant readers alike. Best for upper elementary and middle-grade students interested in real-world tech and engineering.
Setting: modern U.S. Army artillery units in training grounds and combat zones
Frequently Asked Questions
Is M109 Paladin right for my child?
Yes — M109 Paladin is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.9, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 9–14 (4th–8th grade). Themes include military technology, teamwork, engineering and design.
How long does it take to read M109 Paladin?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, M109 Paladin takes around 9m to finish. The book has 1,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does M109 Paladin have an AR quiz?
Yes — M109 Paladin 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 M109 Paladin?
M109 Paladin has an AR reading level of 5.9, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8) — 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.