Pocket Guide to the Outdoors
Based on My Side of the Mountain
by Jean Craighead George, Twig C. George, John George, T. Luke George
National Geographic Books 2009
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Themes include environmental stewardship
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Genre
Themes
- outdoor skills
- self-reliance
- respect for nature
- observation and curiosity
- safety and preparedness
- environmental stewardship
- resourcefulness
About this book
This hands-on companion to My Side of the Mountain teaches kids real outdoor skills they can try close to home or on a family camping trip. Step-by-step tips show how to build a shelter, start a fire safely, identify useful plants, track animals, and more, all with simple explanations and clear illustrations. Blending naturalist facts with practical how-tos, it invites readers to look closely at the world outside and practice being prepared. Perfect for budding naturalists, scouts, and anyone who loves exploring the woods and fields.
Setting: forests, fields, and streams of North America; outdoor environments
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pocket Guide to the Outdoors right for my child?
Yes — Pocket Guide to the Outdoors is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.8, 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 outdoor skills, self-reliance, respect for nature.
How long does it take to read Pocket Guide to the Outdoors?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Pocket Guide to the Outdoors takes around 1.7h to finish. The book has 17,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Pocket Guide to the Outdoors have an AR quiz?
Yes — Pocket Guide to the Outdoors has an AR quiz available, worth 2 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 Pocket Guide to the Outdoors?
Pocket Guide to the Outdoors has an AR reading level of 5.8, 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.