Shh! We're Writing the Constitution
by Jean Fritz
Scholastic 1987
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- democracy
- compromise
- civic engagement
- leadership
- problem-solving
- American history
- teamwork
- government and law
About this book
With humor and lively anecdotes, Jean Fritz whisks readers inside the sweltering hall where delegates debated and drafted the U.S. Constitution. Kids get a behind-the-scenes look at famous founders, big disagreements, and the compromises that shaped a new nation. Clear, conversational writing and playful illustrations make complex ideas easy to grasp. A great pick for upper elementary and middle grade readers studying early American history or civics.
Setting: Philadelphia and the United States during the Constitutional Convention of 1787
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shh! We're Writing the Constitution right for my child?
Yes — Shh! We're Writing the Constitution is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.7, which is typical for 5th 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 democracy, compromise, civic engagement.
How long does it take to read Shh! We're Writing the Constitution?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Shh! We're Writing the Constitution takes around 44m to finish. The book has 7,200 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Shh! We're Writing the Constitution have an AR quiz?
Yes — Shh! We're Writing the Constitution 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 Shh! We're Writing the Constitution?
Shh! We're Writing the Constitution has an AR reading level of 5.7, which places it at a 5th 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.