Song of the Trees
Puffin Books 2003
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Themes include racism and injustice
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Genre
Themes
- family loyalty
- racism and injustice
- connection to the land
- courage and resistance
- heritage and identity
- economic hardship
- community solidarity
About this book
Set in Depression-era Mississippi, this short novel follows the Logan family as they fight to protect the beloved trees on their land from a greedy lumberman. Told through young Cassie’s eyes, it highlights family strength, dignity, and the deep connection to place. Accessible prose and vivid scenes make it a powerful entry point into Mildred D. Taylor’s Logan family saga. Ideal for middle-grade readers ready to discuss history, justice, and standing up for what’s right.
Setting: rural Mississippi, Great Depression (1930s), the Logan family’s farm and surrounding forest
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Song of the Trees right for my child?
Yes — Song of the Trees is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4, 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 family loyalty, racism and injustice, connection to the land.
How long does it take to read Song of the Trees?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Song of the Trees takes around 50m to finish. The book has 7,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Song of the Trees have an AR quiz?
Yes — Song of the Trees 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 Song of the Trees?
Song of the Trees has an AR reading level of 4, 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.