Small Steps
by Louis Sachar
Delacorte Press 2006
Holes
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.2 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- second chances
- friendship
- perseverance
- choices and consequences
- integrity
- trust
- fame and celebrity
- disability inclusion
About this book
Two years after Camp Green Lake, Armpit is back in Austin trying to rebuild his life one small step at a time—steady job, good choices, and a new friendship with his ten-year-old neighbor, Ginny. When an old friend tempts him with a quick-money scheme involving concert tickets, Armpit has to decide who he wants to be. The story blends humor, heart, and suspense as he navigates trust, responsibility, and the pull of fame. Perfect for readers who loved Holes and enjoy realistic stories about second chances.
Setting: Austin, Texas, mid-2000s; contemporary concert tour locations
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Small Steps right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Small Steps. The reading level is AR 4.2, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include second chances, friendship, perseverance.
How long does it take to read Small Steps?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Small Steps takes around 6.3h to finish. The book has 57,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Small Steps have an AR quiz?
Yes — Small Steps has an AR quiz available, worth 7 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 Small Steps?
Small Steps has an AR reading level of 4.2, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — 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.