Swift
by Robert J. Blake
Philomel 2007
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- survival
- nature and wildlife
- family bonds
- coming of age
- courage
- independence
- resilience
About this book
Swift follows a young fox growing up on the windswept moors, learning to hunt, evade danger, and find his place in the wild. Robert J. Blake’s sweeping paintings and spare, lyrical text immerse readers in the rhythms of nature and the life of a fox. Perfect for read-alouds and young animal lovers, it offers gentle suspense and a close-up look at wildlife without being scary. Kids enjoy the dramatic landscapes, the sense of adventure, and the satisfying arc of a creature coming into its own.
Setting: windswept moors of northern England
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Swift right for my child?
Yes — Swift is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.6, which is typical for 3rd grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include survival, nature and wildlife, family bonds.
How long does it take to read Swift?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Swift takes around 7m to finish. The book has 900 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Swift have an AR quiz?
Yes — Swift has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 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 Swift?
Swift has an AR reading level of 3.6, which places it at a 3rd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — 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.