Music Was IT
Young Leonard Bernstein
Charlesbridge Publishing 2018
Great fit for 7th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- passion for music
- perseverance
- family expectations vs. dreams
- identity and heritage
- mentorship
- breaking barriers
- ambition
- coming of age
About this book
This accessible biography follows Leonard Bernstein from a music-obsessed child in Boston to a determined young artist finding his voice in American classical music. With family pressures, cultural barriers, and rigorous training, Lenny’s journey shows how talent, grit, and the right mentors can open doors. Archival photos and lively anecdotes make history feel close and real. Perfect for middle school readers who love music, biographies, and true stories of big dreams.
Setting: Boston, Harvard, Tanglewood, and New York City; 1920s–1940s American classical music scene
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Music Was IT right for my child?
Yes — Music Was IT is a great fit for 7th grade. The reading level is AR 7.5, which is typical for 7th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include passion for music, perseverance, family expectations vs. dreams.
How long does it take to read Music Was IT?
At a typical 7th grade reading pace, Music Was IT takes around 3.4h to finish. The book has 36,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Music Was IT have an AR quiz?
Yes — Music Was IT has an AR quiz available, worth 6 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 Music Was IT?
Music Was IT has an AR reading level of 7.5, which places it at a 7th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — 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.