Mary Joe Fernandez
by Melanie Cole
Mitchell Lane Publishers 1998
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- perseverance
- sportsmanship
- goal setting
- overcoming obstacles
- dedication
- role models
- teamwork
About this book
This short biography introduces tennis star Mary Joe Fernandez, from her early years in Miami to competing on the pro tour and representing the United States at major events. Clear text and photos highlight her work ethic, sportsmanship, and key career milestones. It’s a quick, engaging read for sports fans and report writers who want to learn about a respected role model in women’s tennis. Perfect for middle grade readers looking for an inspiring real-life story.
Setting: professional tennis circuit in the late 1980s–1990s; Miami and international tournaments
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mary Joe Fernandez right for my child?
Yes — Mary Joe Fernandez is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.2, 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 perseverance, sportsmanship, goal setting.
How long does it take to read Mary Joe Fernandez?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Mary Joe Fernandez takes around 18m to finish. The book has 3,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Mary Joe Fernandez have an AR quiz?
Yes — Mary Joe Fernandez 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 Mary Joe Fernandez?
Mary Joe Fernandez has an AR reading level of 5.2, 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.