Take the Reins
Aladdin Mix 2009
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- friendship
- rivalry
- fitting in
- ambition
- teamwork
- perseverance
- responsibility
- sportsmanship
About this book
When talented rider Sasha Silver earns a spot at the elite Canterwood Crest Academy, she must prove herself on a top-ranked equestrian team while navigating new friendships and fierce rivalries. Between demanding classes, high-stakes tryouts, and barn drama, Sasha learns what it takes to compete at the next level. With glossy horse details and boarding-school intrigue, this series opener hooks readers who love competition and friendship stories. Perfect for tweens who enjoy horses, teamwork, and a touch of drama.
Setting: an elite equestrian boarding school in New England
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Take the Reins right for my child?
Yes — Take the Reins is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.3, which is typical for 5th 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, rivalry, fitting in.
How long does it take to read Take the Reins?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Take the Reins takes around 5.7h to finish. The book has 56,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Take the Reins have an AR quiz?
Yes — Take the Reins 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 Take the Reins?
Take the Reins has an AR reading level of 5.3, which places it at a 5th 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.