My Own Two Feet
Harper Collins 2009
Great fit for 6th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- perseverance
- independence
- coming of age
- education and ambition
- finding your voice
- work and responsibility
- resilience
- dreams and goals
About this book
In this candid second memoir, Beverly Cleary traces her journey from college student to newly minted librarian and, ultimately, to the publication of her first book. Readers see how grit, thrift, and a love of stories carry her through lean years and big decisions. Told with Cleary’s warm, straightforward voice, it offers an inspiring peek into how a beloved author found her path. A great pick for middle schoolers who enjoy true stories about chasing goals and finding confidence.
Setting: California and the Pacific Northwest, late 1930s–1940s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is My Own Two Feet right for my child?
Yes — My Own Two Feet is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6.1, which is typical for 6th 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 perseverance, independence, coming of age.
How long does it take to read My Own Two Feet?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, My Own Two Feet takes around 7.6h to finish. The book has 80,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does My Own Two Feet have an AR quiz?
Yes — My Own Two Feet has an AR quiz available, worth 11 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 Own Two Feet?
My Own Two Feet has an AR reading level of 6.1, which places it at a 6th 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.