Rembrandt's hat
by Susan Blackaby
Houghton Mifflin Company 2002
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- art and artists
- creativity
- observation
- self-expression
- history and culture
- curiosity
- perseverance
About this book
This early reader introduces children to the Dutch painter Rembrandt and the way he used costumes—especially hats—to study faces, light, and mood. Simple text and engaging images invite kids to look closely at famous artworks and think about how artists tell stories without words. It’s a friendly, accessible doorway into art history for primary grades. Young readers who like learning how things are made will enjoy discovering an artist’s studio and process.
Setting: Rembrandt’s studio in 17th-century Netherlands (Amsterdam/Leiden); museums and galleries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rembrandt's hat right for my child?
Yes — Rembrandt's hat is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.8, 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 art and artists, creativity, observation.
How long does it take to read Rembrandt's hat?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Rembrandt's hat takes around 7m to finish. The book has 800 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Rembrandt's hat have an AR quiz?
Yes — Rembrandt's hat 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 Rembrandt's hat?
Rembrandt's hat has an AR reading level of 2.8, 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.