Sarah, Plain and Tall
A Newbery Award Winner
by Patricia MacLachlan
Harper Collins 2013
Easy read — content targets 4th–8th grade
Reading level 3.4 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- family
- belonging
- hope and change
- loss and healing
- pioneer life
- resilience
- trust
- home
About this book
Set on the American prairie in the late 1800s, this gentle classic follows Anna and her brother Caleb as they wait to meet Sarah, a warm, lively woman from Maine who may become part of their family. Told in clear, poetic language, the story explores what it feels like to hope, worry, and open your heart to change. Ideal for young readers ready for their first historical chapter book, it offers rich discussion about family, home, and courage. Kids enjoy the vivid prairie setting, memorable characters, and the comforting, hopeful tone.
Setting: a Midwestern prairie farm, late 19th century
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sarah, Plain and Tall right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Sarah, Plain and Tall. The reading level is AR 3.4, which is typical for 3rd 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 family, belonging, hope and change.
How long does it take to read Sarah, Plain and Tall?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Sarah, Plain and Tall takes around 1.2h to finish. The book has 10,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Sarah, Plain and Tall have an AR quiz?
Yes — Sarah, Plain and Tall has an AR quiz available, worth 1 point. 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 Sarah, Plain and Tall?
Sarah, Plain and Tall has an AR reading level of 3.4, which places it at a 3rd 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.