Second Banana
by Keith Graves
Macmillan 2015
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- jealousy
- self-worth
- teamwork
- courage
- being a sidekick
- problem-solving
- showmanship
About this book
Oop the gorilla is always the sidekick to the Amazing Bubbles, a flashy monkey star. When a stunt goes wrong, Oop must step out of the shadows and find the courage to help. With big laughs and a sweet heart, this picture book celebrates unsung heroes and the power of teamwork. Perfect for early elementary readers who enjoy silly humor and happy endings.
Setting: a circus stage and backstage
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Second Banana right for my child?
Yes — Second Banana is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.7, 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 friendship, jealousy, self-worth.
How long does it take to read Second Banana?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Second Banana takes around 6m to finish. The book has 700 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Second Banana have an AR quiz?
Yes — Second Banana 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 Second Banana?
Second Banana has an AR reading level of 2.7, 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.