Technical foul
by Rich Wallace
Puffin 2004
Easy read — content targets 4th–8th grade
Reading level 3.8 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- sportsmanship
- teamwork
- self-control
- leadership
- peer pressure
- perseverance
About this book
A young basketball player’s passion for the game keeps putting him on the referee’s radar—and in trouble with his coach and teammates. As technical fouls stack up, he has to learn self-control, play smarter, and figure out what it really means to lead a team. Fast-paced game action, short chapters, and authentic locker-room dynamics make this a great pick for sports fans and reluctant readers. Perfect for middle graders who love hoops and stories about teamwork and growth.
Setting: small-town middle school and gymnasiums during basketball season, present day
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Technical foul right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Technical foul. The reading level is AR 3.8, 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 sportsmanship, teamwork, self-control.
How long does it take to read Technical foul?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Technical foul takes around 2.8h to finish. The book has 23,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Technical foul have an AR quiz?
Yes — Technical foul has an AR quiz available, worth 3 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 Technical foul?
Technical foul has an AR reading level of 3.8, 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.