Rebel
Philomel Books 1995
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- independence
- survival
- nature and wildlife
- coming of age
- courage
- resilience
- human impact on nature
About this book
Caldecott Medalist John Schoenherr tells the story of Rebel, a young raptor learning to live on its own in the wild. Readers follow the bird’s first flights, close calls, and growing confidence against a backdrop of striking, realistic nature art. It’s a gentle, suspenseful look at wildlife that invites kids to notice details and cheer for an animal’s journey to independence. Perfect for nature lovers and read‑alouds with early elementary students.
Setting: North American cliffs and skies, present day
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rebel right for my child?
Yes — Rebel is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.7, which is typical for 3rd 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 independence, survival, nature and wildlife.
How long does it take to read Rebel?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Rebel takes around 7m to finish. The book has 1,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Rebel have an AR quiz?
Yes — Rebel 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 Rebel?
Rebel has an AR reading level of 3.7, which places it at a 3rd 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.