Strike Two
by George Shea
Globe Fearon 1981
Easy read — content targets 4th–8th grade
Reading level 3.3 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- perseverance
- teamwork
- self-confidence
- sportsmanship
- dealing with failure
- goals and hard work
- friendship
About this book
A fast-paced baseball story for developing readers, Strike Two follows a young player battling nerves, slumps, and team pressure as he fights to earn his spot on the field. Short chapters, clear language, and plenty of game action make it approachable for reluctant and striving readers. Sports fans will enjoy the on-field drama while connecting with the character’s mistakes, practice, and small victories. A good pick for middle-grade readers who like realistic sports stories and quick reads.
Setting: small-town America, contemporary (1980s baseball season)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Strike Two right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Strike Two. The reading level is AR 3.3, 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 perseverance, teamwork, self-confidence.
How long does it take to read Strike Two?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Strike Two takes around 56m to finish. The book has 7,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Strike Two have an AR quiz?
Yes — Strike Two 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 Strike Two?
Strike Two has an AR reading level of 3.3, 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.