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The AR Booklist
My family plays music book cover

My family plays music

by Judy Cox

Holiday House 2003

Great fit for 2nd grade

Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9

2nd grade English
0.5
AR Points
7m
Read time
AR Quiz Available

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Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Award (Illustrator)

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Themes

  • family
  • music and the arts
  • diversity and inclusion
  • self-expression
  • community
  • culture and tradition
  • celebration

About this book

A young girl introduces readers to her lively, music-loving family, where every relative plays a different instrument and style—from symphony strings to jazz drums and marching band brass. With rhythmic text and vibrant artwork, the book celebrates the many sounds of music and the joy of making it together. It’s perfect for early elementary readers and read-alouds, inviting kids to explore instruments, genres, and cultural traditions. Families and classrooms will love its upbeat tone and inclusive message.

Setting: contemporary, various music venues in a city (symphony hall, jazz club, parade, home)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is My family plays music right for my child?

Yes — My family plays music is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.7, 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 family, music and the arts, diversity and inclusion.

How long does it take to read My family plays music?

At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, My family plays music takes around 7m to finish. The book has 800 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.

Does My family plays music have an AR quiz?

Yes — My family plays music 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 My family plays music?

My family plays music has an AR reading level of 2.7, 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.