Stepping on the cracks
Tandem Library 1999
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Themes include war and its impact on families
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- bullying
- empathy and compassion
- moral choices
- loyalty
- courage
- war and its impact on families
- secrets
About this book
Set on the American home front in 1944, this historical novel follows best friends Margaret and Elizabeth as they face schoolyard bullies, air-raid drills, and wartime worries. When they begin to see a different side of class bully Gordy, the girls are drawn into a secret that challenges their assumptions about right and wrong. With rich period detail and relatable characters, the story explores how courage and compassion can grow in unexpected places. Perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy character-driven stories and World War II history.
Setting: small-town Maryland, 1944 (World War II home front)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stepping on the cracks right for my child?
Yes — Stepping on the cracks is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.7, 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 friendship, bullying, empathy and compassion.
How long does it take to read Stepping on the cracks?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Stepping on the cracks takes around 6.7h to finish. The book has 60,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Stepping on the cracks have an AR quiz?
Yes — Stepping on the cracks 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 Stepping on the cracks?
Stepping on the cracks has an AR reading level of 4.7, 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.