My dog Skip
Random House 2008
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- loyalty
- coming of age
- family
- responsibility
- small-town life
- nostalgia
- human–animal bond
About this book
This classic memoir follows young Willie growing up in 1940s Mississippi with his loyal dog, Skip. Their small-town adventures, new friendships, and everyday scrapes show how a good dog can help a kid find courage and kindness. Written with warmth and humor, the story celebrates the powerful bond between a boy and his pet. It’s a great pick for animal lovers and readers who enjoy true, nostalgic stories.
Setting: Yazoo City, Mississippi, 1940s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is My dog Skip right for my child?
Yes — My dog Skip is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.9, which is typical for 5th 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 friendship, loyalty, coming of age.
How long does it take to read My dog Skip?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, My dog Skip takes around 3.7h to finish. The book has 37,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does My dog Skip have an AR quiz?
Yes — My dog Skip has an AR quiz available, worth 4 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 My dog Skip?
My dog Skip has an AR reading level of 5.9, which places it at a 5th 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.