New Friends in a New Land
by Judith Stamper
Tandem Library 1999
Challenging read for K–3rd grade
Reading level 4.2 (4th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- immigration
- friendship
- resilience
- cultural identity
- family
- adaptation
- hope
- community
About this book
This Level 4 social-studies reader follows five children who immigrate to America and learn to make a home in a bustling new country. Through short, engaging episodes, readers see the challenges of a new language, unfamiliar customs, and making friends—along with the courage and kindness that help them adjust. Simple text and historical details make it a strong fit for elementary readers studying immigration or American history. Kids enjoy the relatable voices and hopeful moments as the characters find community and belonging.
Setting: Ellis Island and New York City, early 1900s
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is New Friends in a New Land right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for New Friends in a New Land. The reading level is AR 4.2, which is typical for 4th 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 immigration, friendship, resilience.
How long does it take to read New Friends in a New Land?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, New Friends in a New Land takes around 12m to finish. The book has 1,800 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does New Friends in a New Land have an AR quiz?
Yes — New Friends in a New Land 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 New Friends in a New Land?
New Friends in a New Land has an AR reading level of 4.2, which places it at a 4th 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.