Tarantula Power!
by Ann Whitehead Nagda
Holiday House 2007
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- responsibility
- overcoming fears
- friendship
- empathy for animals
- self-confidence
- school life
- science and inquiry
About this book
When a class tarantula becomes the center of a third- or fourth-grade science project, a cautious kid discovers unexpected courage and curiosity. Caring for the misunderstood spider leads to new friendships, tricky school situations, and a fresh respect for creatures that make others squirm. Short, funny chapters and plenty of everyday school drama make this an inviting read for animal lovers and reluctant readers alike. It’s a warm, realistic story about responsibility, teamwork, and finding your voice.
Setting: a contemporary American elementary school and neighborhood
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tarantula Power! right for my child?
Yes — Tarantula Power! is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.1, 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 responsibility, overcoming fears, friendship.
How long does it take to read Tarantula Power!?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Tarantula Power! takes around 1.9h to finish. The book has 17,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Tarantula Power! have an AR quiz?
Yes — Tarantula Power! has an AR quiz available, worth 1.5 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 Tarantula Power!?
Tarantula Power! has an AR reading level of 4.1, 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.