The Blossoms and the Green Phantom
by Betsy Byars
Open Road Media 2013
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- family bonds
- resourcefulness
- loyalty
- responsibility
- perseverance
- adventure
- humor
- problem-solving
About this book
Junior Blossom is determined to finish his greatest invention yet—a homemade UFO called the Green Phantom—built from garbage bags and Day-Glo paint. While he searches for one last special ingredient, Pap and the family dog, Mud, don’t return from a trip to town, leaving the Blossom kids worried and scattered. As mishaps pile up, the siblings must pull together, rely on their wits, and keep faith in each other. Funny, warm, and full of heart, this family story appeals to middle-grade readers who enjoy inventive capers and strong family bonds.
Setting: small-town America, contemporary (1980s)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Blossoms and the Green Phantom right for my child?
Yes — The Blossoms and the Green Phantom is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.6, 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 family bonds, resourcefulness, loyalty.
How long does it take to read The Blossoms and the Green Phantom?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, The Blossoms and the Green Phantom takes around 3.5h to finish. The book has 31,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Blossoms and the Green Phantom have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Blossoms and the Green Phantom has an AR quiz available, worth 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 Blossoms and the Green Phantom?
The Blossoms and the Green Phantom has an AR reading level of 4.6, 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.