Pets I wouldn't pick
by Susan Alton Schmeltz
Parents Magazine Press 1993
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- choosing a pet
- responsibility
- humor
- imagination
- problem solving
- consequences
- animal traits
About this book
A playful narrator runs through all the wild and wacky animals they definitely would not choose as a pet, from prickly porcupines to snappy crocodiles. Each page offers silly reasons why certain creatures just wouldn’t work at home, helping kids think about what makes a good pet. The short, humorous text and lively illustrations make it a fun read-aloud for younger children and a confidence-builder for emerging readers. Perfect for animal lovers who enjoy giggles and exaggeration.
Setting: a child’s home and imaginative scenarios
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pets I wouldn't pick right for my child?
Yes — Pets I wouldn't pick is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.7, which is typical for 2nd 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 choosing a pet, responsibility, humor.
How long does it take to read Pets I wouldn't pick?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Pets I wouldn't pick takes around 7m to finish. The book has 800 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Pets I wouldn't pick have an AR quiz?
Yes — Pets I wouldn't pick 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 Pets I wouldn't pick?
Pets I wouldn't pick has an AR reading level of 2.7, which places it at a 2nd 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.