Sidewalk story
Puffin Books 1986
Easy read — content targets 4th–8th grade
Reading level 3.8 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 9–14
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- friendship
- community
- empathy
- social justice
- poverty and housing insecurity
- activism
- resilience
- family
About this book
In a close-knit city neighborhood, a determined girl leaps into action when her friend’s family faces eviction. She rallies neighbors and looks for practical ways kids can help, discovering the power of community and her own voice along the way. This short, heartfelt chapter book offers an accessible look at fairness and empathy for elementary readers. Kids enjoy its honest, hopeful tone and relatable characters.
Setting: an inner-city neighborhood (likely Washington, D.C.), late 20th century
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sidewalk story right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Sidewalk story. The reading level is AR 3.8, 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 friendship, community, empathy.
How long does it take to read Sidewalk story?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Sidewalk story takes around 1.1h to finish. The book has 8,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Sidewalk story have an AR quiz?
Yes — Sidewalk story 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 Sidewalk story?
Sidewalk story has an AR reading level of 3.8, 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.