The Leaping Laddoo
by Harshita Jerath
Albert Whitman & Company 2022
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- humor
- cultural traditions
- community
- chase and adventure
- food and cooking
- folktale retelling
- rhythm and repetition
About this book
This playful picture book follows a freshly made laddoo—a round Indian sweet—as it bounds through the lively streets of India with a chorus of chasers close behind. Sprinkled with Hindi words and vibrant scenes, it’s a lively, rhythmic read-aloud perfect for storytime. Young readers will enjoy the familiar runaway-treat twist and the energetic refrain they can shout along with. A laddoo recipe at the end invites families to continue the fun in the kitchen.
Setting: bustling streets and markets of contemporary India
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Leaping Laddoo right for my child?
Yes — The Leaping Laddoo is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.7, 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 humor, cultural traditions, community.
How long does it take to read The Leaping Laddoo?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, The Leaping Laddoo takes around 5m to finish. The book has 650 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Leaping Laddoo have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Leaping Laddoo 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 Leaping Laddoo?
The Leaping Laddoo has an AR reading level of 2.7, 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.