The Bodigulpa
by Jenny Nimmo
Macmillan Children's Books 2001
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- family dynamics
- grief and loss
- fear and suspense
- secrets and suspicion
- courage
- loyalty to pets
- nature gone wrong
- trust
About this book
When Grandpa Green moves in after Granny’s mysterious death, Daniel can’t shake the feeling that something isn’t right—especially with Grandpa’s strange, menacing plants. Grandpa is gruff, secretive, and seems to care only for his greenhouse. When Auntie Lorna arrives to babysit with her dog Stanley, tensions rise and the plants seem to take on a life of their own. This short, spooky tale blends family drama with creeping suspense, perfect for readers who like a fast, eerie read without heavy scares.
Setting: contemporary British home and garden with a menacing greenhouse
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Bodigulpa right for my child?
Yes — The Bodigulpa is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.1, 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 dynamics, grief and loss, fear and suspense.
How long does it take to read The Bodigulpa?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, The Bodigulpa takes around 1.3h to finish. The book has 12,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Bodigulpa have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Bodigulpa has an AR quiz available, worth 1 point. 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 Bodigulpa?
The Bodigulpa has an AR reading level of 4.1, 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.