The New Puppy
by Lynn Maslen Kertell
2012
Great fit for Kindergarten
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- responsibility
- family life
- pets and animal care
- teamwork
- patience
- problem-solving
About this book
Jack and Anna are excited to bring home a new puppy—and quickly learn that fun comes with responsibility. With short, decodable sentences and supportive illustrations, this early reader helps children practice sight words while following a warm family story. Beginning readers will relate to the everyday challenges of caring for a pet and the pride that comes from helping. Perfect for kindergarten and first grade students building confidence.
Setting: a family home and neighborhood in the present day
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The New Puppy right for my child?
Yes — The New Puppy is a great fit for Kindergarten. The reading level is AR 0.9, which is typical for Kindergarten. 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 responsibility, family life, pets and animal care.
How long does it take to read The New Puppy?
At a typical Kindergarten reading pace, The New Puppy takes around 5m to finish. The book has 220 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The New Puppy have an AR quiz?
Yes — The New Puppy 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 New Puppy?
The New Puppy has an AR reading level of 0.9, which places it at a Kindergarten 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.