Mrs. Katz and Tush
Dell Publishing 1992
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- intergenerational relationships
- cultural heritage
- kindness and empathy
- community
- identity and belonging
- traditions and holidays
- respect for differences
About this book
When young Larnel helps his elderly neighbor, Mrs. Katz, care for a tailless kitten he names Tush, a warm friendship grows. Through shared days with the cat, Mrs. Katz opens up about her traditions and the journey that brought her to America. The story gently explores cultural heritage, compassion, and the bonds that form across generations. Perfect for readers who enjoy heartfelt, real-life stories and for families who like to talk about kindness and community.
Setting: a contemporary urban neighborhood in the United States
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mrs. Katz and Tush right for my child?
Yes — Mrs. Katz and Tush is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.1, 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, intergenerational relationships, cultural heritage.
How long does it take to read Mrs. Katz and Tush?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Mrs. Katz and Tush takes around 11m to finish. The book has 1,550 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Mrs. Katz and Tush have an AR quiz?
Yes — Mrs. Katz and Tush 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 Mrs. Katz and Tush?
Mrs. Katz and Tush has an AR reading level of 3.1, 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.