Mustard
by Charlotte Towner Graeber
Bantam Books 1985
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- responsibility
- compassion for animals
- family and rules
- problem-solving
- belonging
- friendship
- honesty
- kindness
About this book
Two siblings discover a scruffy yellow kitten and name him Mustard. As they try to care for him, they learn what pets need and how family rules and responsibilities shape everyday life. Short chapters and warm, realistic details make it an inviting step-up for new chapter-book readers. Animal lovers will enjoy the gentle humor and the hopeful, heartwarming tone.
Setting: a suburban neighborhood and family home
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mustard right for my child?
Yes — Mustard is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.9, 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 responsibility, compassion for animals, family and rules.
How long does it take to read Mustard?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Mustard takes around 35m to finish. The book has 4,200 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Mustard have an AR quiz?
Yes — Mustard 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 Mustard?
Mustard has an AR reading level of 2.9, 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.