The Official M&M's History of Chocolate
by
Charlesbridge Publishing 2001
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- history of food
- cultural exchange
- science of food
- innovation and technology
- trade and exploration
- globalization
- curiosity and discovery
About this book
Guided by the playful M&M’s characters, this lively nonfiction book traces chocolate’s journey from cacao in ancient Mesoamerica to the sweet treats we enjoy today. Readers learn how chocolate was discovered, traded, and transformed by different cultures, and how modern factories turn beans into bars. Clear explanations, fun facts, and colorful art make complex ideas approachable for elementary and middle-grade readers. Perfect for curious kids who love history, science, or just really love chocolate.
Setting: From ancient Mesoamerica to Europe and modern chocolate factories around the world
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Official M&M's History of Chocolate right for my child?
Yes — The Official M&M's History of Chocolate is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.5, which is typical for 5th 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 history of food, cultural exchange, science of food.
How long does it take to read The Official M&M's History of Chocolate?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Official M&M's History of Chocolate takes around 18m to finish. The book has 3,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Official M&M's History of Chocolate have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Official M&M's History of Chocolate 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 Official M&M's History of Chocolate?
The Official M&M's History of Chocolate has an AR reading level of 5.5, which places it at a 5th 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.