That's Hard, That's Easy
by Margery Bernstein
Millbrook Press 2011
Great fit for 1st grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- self-confidence
- growth mindset
- perseverance
- individuality
- trying new things
- empathy
- celebrating differences
About this book
This playful picture book invites kids to think about everyday tasks—like climbing a tree, flying a kite, or playing a drum—and how some feel hard while others feel easy. With simple, inviting text, it shows that everyone has different strengths and challenges. It encourages young readers to try new things and celebrate progress. Perfect for read‑alouds in PreK–1, it sparks friendly discussion about effort, confidence, and empathy.
Setting: everyday neighborhoods, playgrounds, and home
Frequently Asked Questions
Is That's Hard, That's Easy right for my child?
Yes — That's Hard, That's Easy is a great fit for 1st grade. The reading level is AR 1.1, which is typical for 1st 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 self-confidence, growth mindset, perseverance.
How long does it take to read That's Hard, That's Easy?
At a typical 1st grade reading pace, That's Hard, That's Easy takes around 3m to finish. The book has 260 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does That's Hard, That's Easy have an AR quiz?
Yes — That's Hard, That's Easy 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 That's Hard, That's Easy?
That's Hard, That's Easy has an AR reading level of 1.1, which places it at a 1st 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.