Tell Someone
by Debra Kempf Shumaker
Albert Whitman & Company 2021
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- communication
- trust
- emotional literacy
- courage
- help-seeking
- consent and body safety
- self-advocacy
- school anxiety
About this book
This reassuring picture book encourages children to speak up to someone they trust when they feel sad, scared, worried, or proud. Through everyday situations like the first day of school or holding a secret that doesn’t feel right, it models healthy communication and help‑seeking. Simple, rhythmic text and warm illustrations make it easy for young readers to practice using their voices. Perfect for families and classrooms building social-emotional skills and safety awareness.
Setting: contemporary homes, school, and community
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tell Someone right for my child?
Yes — Tell Someone is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.1, which is typical for 2nd 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 communication, trust, emotional literacy.
How long does it take to read Tell Someone?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Tell Someone takes around 4m to finish. The book has 450 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Tell Someone have an AR quiz?
Yes — Tell Someone 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 Tell Someone?
Tell Someone has an AR reading level of 2.1, which places it at a 2nd 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.