Stonewall: Breaking Out in the Fight for Gay Rights
by Ann Bausum
Penguin 2015
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 8.3 (8th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- civil rights
- identity
- activism
- courage
- resilience
- community
- protest
- social change
About this book
This accessible nonfiction book traces how the 1969 uprising at New York City’s Stonewall Inn helped ignite the modern LGBTQ rights movement. Ann Bausum blends gripping narrative, archival photos, and clear historical context to show what life was like before Stonewall and how activists organized for change. It’s a strong fit for teens studying U.S. history, social justice, or LGBTQ topics. Readers appreciate the vivid storytelling, primary-source material, and empowering look at real-world activism.
Setting: Greenwich Village, New York City, late 1960s; broader United States
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stonewall: Breaking Out in the Fight for Gay Rights right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Stonewall: Breaking Out in the Fight for Gay Rights. The reading level is AR 8.3, which is typical for 8th 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 civil rights, identity, activism.
How long does it take to read Stonewall: Breaking Out in the Fight for Gay Rights?
At a typical 8th grade reading pace, Stonewall: Breaking Out in the Fight for Gay Rights takes around 2.5h to finish. The book has 26,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Stonewall: Breaking Out in the Fight for Gay Rights have an AR quiz?
Yes — Stonewall: Breaking Out in the Fight for Gay Rights has an AR quiz available, worth 4 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 Stonewall: Breaking Out in the Fight for Gay Rights?
Stonewall: Breaking Out in the Fight for Gay Rights has an AR reading level of 8.3, which places it at a 8th 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.