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Radio rescue book cover

Radio rescue

by Lynne Barasch

Farrar, Straus and Giroux 2000

Challenging read for K–3rd grade

Reading level 4.3 (4th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range

4th grade English
32
Pages
0.5
AR Points
7m
Read time
AR Quiz Available

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Genre

Narrative Nonfiction

Themes

  • community service
  • technology and innovation
  • responsibility
  • perseverance
  • problem-solving
  • communication
  • citizenship
  • history

About this book

This nonfiction picture book follows a curious boy in the early days of radio as he learns Morse code, builds his own set, and earns his amateur radio license. When storms and emergencies knock out phones, his ham radio becomes a lifeline for people who need help. Lively illustrations and clear text show how kids’ passions can make a real difference in their communities. Perfect for young readers who love true stories, inventions, and helping others.

Setting: New York City and the U.S. East Coast, 1920s–1930s

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Radio rescue right for my child?

It depends — here's what to consider for Radio rescue. The reading level is AR 4.3, which is typical for 4th 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 community service, technology and innovation, responsibility.

How long does it take to read Radio rescue?

At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Radio rescue takes around 7m to finish. The book has 1,100 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.

Does Radio rescue have an AR quiz?

Yes — Radio rescue 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 Radio rescue?

Radio rescue has an AR reading level of 4.3, which places it at a 4th 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.