My Name Is Brain Brian
Scholastic 1993
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- learning differences
- self-advocacy
- perseverance
- friendship
- identity
- bullying and empathy
- school life
- family support
About this book
When Brian’s teacher accidentally writes his name as “Brain” on the board, it sparks teasing—and a turning point. Brian has always struggled with reading and writing, and he soon learns he has dyslexia. With the help of a supportive teacher, new strategies, and good friends, he begins to understand how his brain works and discovers his strengths. A relatable, hopeful school story for middle graders about perseverance and self-advocacy.
Setting: a contemporary suburban middle school, early 1990s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is My Name Is Brain Brian right for my child?
Yes — My Name Is Brain Brian is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.8, which is typical for 4th 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 learning differences, self-advocacy, perseverance.
How long does it take to read My Name Is Brain Brian?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, My Name Is Brain Brian takes around 3.2h to finish. The book has 29,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does My Name Is Brain Brian have an AR quiz?
Yes — My Name Is Brain Brian 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 Name Is Brain Brian?
My Name Is Brain Brian has an AR reading level of 4.8, which places it at a 4th 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.