Play to the angel
by Maurine F. Dahlberg
Puffin Books 2000
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- courage
- the power of music
- friendship
- prejudice and intolerance
- family
- resistance
- identity
- hope
About this book
Set in late-1930s Vienna, this story follows a devoted young pianist whose love of music collides with a world growing more dangerous under Nazi rule. Guided by a demanding teacher and inspired by the power of performance, she learns what it means to be brave and to stand up for friends and family. The book blends music, history, and heart, offering an accessible window into a pivotal moment in Europe. Perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy historical fiction with strong, determined heroines.
Setting: Vienna, Austria, late 1930s (pre–World War II)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Play to the angel right for my child?
Yes — Play to the angel 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 courage, the power of music, friendship.
How long does it take to read Play to the angel?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Play to the angel takes around 4.5h to finish. The book has 44,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Play to the angel have an AR quiz?
Yes — Play to the angel has an AR quiz available, worth 6 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 Play to the angel?
Play to the angel 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.