Shakespeare's scribe
O'Brien 2002
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- identity and belonging
- loyalty
- honesty and integrity
- friendship
- perseverance
- theater and the arts
- found family
- coming of age
About this book
In this sequel to The Shakespeare Stealer, orphaned Widge travels with Shakespeare’s acting company after the plague closes London’s theaters. When the troupe hits the road, Widge’s quick mind and shorthand skills make him invaluable—as a scribe and as a player learning the craft. Historical detail and backstage drama bring Elizabethan theater to life while Widge searches for where he truly belongs. Perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy adventure, history, and the world of the stage.
Setting: Elizabethan England—London and the English countryside during a plague outbreak
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shakespeare's scribe right for my child?
Yes — Shakespeare's scribe is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.5, which is typical for 4th 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 identity and belonging, loyalty, honesty and integrity.
How long does it take to read Shakespeare's scribe?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Shakespeare's scribe takes around 6.9h to finish. The book has 62,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Shakespeare's scribe have an AR quiz?
Yes — Shakespeare's scribe has an AR quiz available, worth 8 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 Shakespeare's scribe?
Shakespeare's scribe has an AR reading level of 4.5, which places it at a 4th 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.