Me and the Boss
A Story About Mending and Love
by Michelle Edwards
Anne Schwartz Books 2022
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- siblings
- perseverance
- creativity
- self-confidence
- family love
- mentorship
- community and libraries
- growth mindset
About this book
Lee wants to learn to sew like his big sister, Zora—the self-appointed boss who guides, protects, and sometimes frustrates him. After a visit to the library’s sewing program, Lee keeps trying until he can stitch something all his own. This warm, realistic story highlights patience, persistence, and the special bond between siblings. Perfect for young readers and listeners, it celebrates creativity, community, and the pride that comes from learning a new skill.
Setting: a contemporary urban neighborhood and public library
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Me and the Boss right for my child?
Yes — Me and the Boss 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 siblings, perseverance, creativity.
How long does it take to read Me and the Boss?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Me and the Boss takes around 8m to finish. The book has 980 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Me and the Boss have an AR quiz?
Yes — Me and the Boss 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 Me and the Boss?
Me and the Boss 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.