The Adventures of Simple Simon
by Chris Conover
Sunburst 1989
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- humor
- curiosity
- mistakes and learning
- folklore and tradition
- wordplay and rhyme
- perseverance
- imagination
- observation
About this book
This playful picture book follows Simple Simon through a series of good-natured mix-ups as he wanders a world woven from classic Mother Goose rhymes. Told in lively verse and paired with detailed, humorous illustrations, it invites kids to spot hidden cameos from sixteen familiar nursery rhyme characters. It’s a fun read-aloud that builds rhyme awareness and vocabulary while rewarding careful observation. Perfect for young readers who enjoy humor, seek-and-find pictures, and timeless folklore.
Setting: a whimsical Mother Goose storybook world
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Adventures of Simple Simon right for my child?
Yes — The Adventures of Simple Simon is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.3, which is typical for 3rd 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 humor, curiosity, mistakes and learning.
How long does it take to read The Adventures of Simple Simon?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, The Adventures of Simple Simon takes around 7m to finish. The book has 1,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Adventures of Simple Simon have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Adventures of Simple Simon 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 The Adventures of Simple Simon?
The Adventures of Simple Simon has an AR reading level of 3.3, which places it at a 3rd 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.