Me Tarzan
by Betsy Cromer Byars, Bill Cigliano
Tandem Library 2000
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- honesty
- self-confidence
- fitting in
- bragging vs. humility
- courage
- school life
About this book
A funny, down-to-earth chapter book about a kid who decides that acting brave like Tarzan might be the fastest way to win respect at school. When boasting and dares start to snowball, he has to figure out whether courage means proving himself or telling the truth. Betsy Byars’ warm humor and everyday school situations keep the pages turning. Short chapters and relatable characters make it a great pick for emerging readers.
Setting: contemporary small-town elementary school and neighborhood
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Me Tarzan right for my child?
Yes — Me Tarzan is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.4, which is typical for 3rd 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 friendship, honesty, self-confidence.
How long does it take to read Me Tarzan?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Me Tarzan takes around 1.2h to finish. The book has 9,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Me Tarzan have an AR quiz?
Yes — Me Tarzan has an AR quiz available, worth 1 point. 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 Tarzan?
Me Tarzan has an AR reading level of 3.4, which places it at a 3rd 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.