Scaredy-cat catcher
by Hicks, Betty.
Roaring Brook Press 2009
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- overcoming fear
- teamwork
- friendship
- confidence
- sportsmanship
- perseverance
- self-improvement
About this book
A nervous kid who loves baseball wants to be his team’s catcher—but the fast pitches and foul tips make him flinch. With encouragement from friends and a patient coach, he learns strategies to calm his nerves and focus on the fun of the game. This short, humorous sports story is perfect for newly independent readers who enjoy fast-paced chapters and relatable school-team drama. Kids like it for the on-field action, supportive friendships, and the satisfying feeling of overcoming a fear.
Setting: a community Little League baseball field and school, present day
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scaredy-cat catcher right for my child?
Yes — Scaredy-cat catcher is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.1, 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 overcoming fear, teamwork, friendship.
How long does it take to read Scaredy-cat catcher?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Scaredy-cat catcher takes around 58m to finish. The book has 7,800 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Scaredy-cat catcher have an AR quiz?
Yes — Scaredy-cat catcher 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 Scaredy-cat catcher?
Scaredy-cat catcher has an AR reading level of 3.1, 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.