Now Is Your Time!
The African-American Struggle for Freedo
Harper Collins 2009
Great fit for 7th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
Themes include racism and oppression
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- freedom and justice
- civil rights
- resilience
- identity and heritage
- racism and oppression
- activism and leadership
- hope and perseverance
- American history
About this book
Walter Dean Myers traces the history of African Americans from the earliest days in America through the Civil Rights era and beyond, telling the story through powerful narratives of real people and pivotal events. Blending biography, primary sources, and clear historical context, he shows how generations have struggled, resisted, and helped shape the nation. Accessible and engaging, this is a strong choice for middle school and early high school readers studying U.S. history or seeking a deeper understanding of Black history. Kids are drawn to its vivid storytelling, memorable voices, and the way it connects past to present.
Setting: United States, from the colonial era through the 20th century
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Now Is Your Time! right for my child?
Yes — Now Is Your Time! is a great fit for 7th grade. The reading level is AR 7.9, which is typical for 7th 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 freedom and justice, civil rights, resilience.
How long does it take to read Now Is Your Time!?
At a typical 7th grade reading pace, Now Is Your Time! takes around 7.5h to finish. The book has 79,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Now Is Your Time! have an AR quiz?
Yes — Now Is Your Time! 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 Now Is Your Time!?
Now Is Your Time! has an AR reading level of 7.9, which places it at a 7th 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.