Michael L. Printz and the Story of the Michael L. Printz Award
by John Bankston
2003
Great fit for 7th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Themes include literary awards
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Genre
Themes
- love of reading
- advocacy
- influence of librarians
- literary awards
- legacy
- history of young adult literature
- education
- leadership
About this book
This short biography introduces Michael L. Printz, a passionate high school librarian whose love of young adult books helped inspire a major award in his name. Readers learn how the Michael L. Printz Award came to be and what it recognizes in teen literature. Photos and clear explanations make the history of YA books and library advocacy accessible to middle-grade readers. It’s a great pick for kids curious about books, authors, and how awards shape what we read.
Setting: United States school libraries and the world of young adult publishing, late 20th century to early 2000s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Michael L. Printz and the Story of the Michael L. Printz Award right for my child?
Yes — Michael L. Printz and the Story of the Michael L. Printz Award is a great fit for 7th grade. The reading level is AR 7.1, which is typical for 7th 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 love of reading, advocacy, influence of librarians.
How long does it take to read Michael L. Printz and the Story of the Michael L. Printz Award?
At a typical 7th grade reading pace, Michael L. Printz and the Story of the Michael L. Printz Award takes around 46m to finish. The book has 8,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Michael L. Printz and the Story of the Michael L. Printz Award have an AR quiz?
Yes — Michael L. Printz and the Story of the Michael L. Printz Award 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 Michael L. Printz and the Story of the Michael L. Printz Award?
Michael L. Printz and the Story of the Michael L. Printz Award has an AR reading level of 7.1, which places it at a 7th 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.