Marco Polo's Journey to China. 2nd Edition
by Diana Childress
Twenty-First Century Books 2013
Great fit for 8th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- exploration
- cultural exchange
- curiosity and discovery
- trade and economics
- travel and adventure
- adaptability
- leadership and empire
- history and primary sources
About this book
This engaging biography traces Marco Polo’s overland journey from Venice to the court of Kublai Khan and explores how his account ignited Europe’s curiosity about Asia. Rich with historical context, maps, and primary-source sidebars, it shows what trade and travel along the Silk Road looked like in the 13th century. Ideal for middle school readers who enjoy true adventure and world history, it highlights how one traveler’s observations influenced exploration for centuries. Clear writing and vivid visuals make complex history accessible and exciting.
Setting: Venice and the Silk Road across Persia and Central Asia to Yuan China (13th century), including Kublai Khan’s court in Khanbaliq (Beijing)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Marco Polo's Journey to China. 2nd Edition right for my child?
Yes — Marco Polo's Journey to China. 2nd Edition is a great fit for 8th grade. The reading level is AR 8.3, which is typical for 8th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include exploration, cultural exchange, curiosity and discovery.
How long does it take to read Marco Polo's Journey to China. 2nd Edition?
At a typical 8th grade reading pace, Marco Polo's Journey to China. 2nd Edition takes around 2.7h to finish. The book has 28,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Marco Polo's Journey to China. 2nd Edition have an AR quiz?
Yes — Marco Polo's Journey to China. 2nd Edition has an AR quiz available, worth 4 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 Marco Polo's Journey to China. 2nd Edition?
Marco Polo's Journey to China. 2nd Edition has an AR reading level of 8.3, which places it at a 8th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — 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.