Pedro's journal
by Pam Conrad
Scholastic 1992
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- exploration
- courage
- survival at sea
- cultural encounter
- leadership and loyalty
- moral questions and empathy
- coming of age
- discovery
About this book
Told as the diary of a young cabin boy aboard Columbus’s first voyage, this historical novel follows Pedro as he records life at sea, the dangers of exploration, and the people and places the crew encounters. The intimate journal format makes history feel immediate and personal, while short entries and vivid details keep readers turning pages. Ideal for middle-grade readers studying the Age of Exploration, it invites thoughtful discussion about bravery, leadership, and the consequences of discovery—without giving away key moments.
Setting: aboard Columbus’s ships and the Caribbean, 1492–1493
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pedro's journal right for my child?
Yes — Pedro's journal is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.3, which is typical for 5th 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 exploration, courage, survival at sea.
How long does it take to read Pedro's journal?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Pedro's journal takes around 1.0h to finish. The book has 10,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Pedro's journal have an AR quiz?
Yes — Pedro's journal has an AR quiz available, worth 1 point. 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 Pedro's journal?
Pedro's journal has an AR reading level of 5.3, which places it at a 5th 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.