The People Could Fly: The Picture Book
National Geographic Books 2004
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- freedom
- resilience
- imagination
- oral tradition and storytelling
- community
- hope
- resistance
- African American folktales
About this book
This stunning picture-book retelling of a classic African American folktale imagines enslaved people who remember ancient magic words and rise into the sky to freedom. Virginia Hamilton’s lyrical language pairs with Leo and Diane Dillon’s luminous art to create a powerful, hopeful story that honors resilience and the strength of community. It’s ideal for family read‑alouds and classroom discussions about folklore, history, and the power of imagination. Young readers are drawn to the captivating images and the soaring, unforgettable idea of freedom.
Setting: the enslaved American South, mostly on plantation fields and quarters
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The People Could Fly: The Picture Book right for my child?
Yes — The People Could Fly: The Picture Book is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.3, which is typical for 3rd 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 freedom, resilience, imagination.
How long does it take to read The People Could Fly: The Picture Book?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, The People Could Fly: The Picture Book takes around 8m to finish. The book has 1,100 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The People Could Fly: The Picture Book have an AR quiz?
Yes — The People Could Fly: The Picture Book 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 People Could Fly: The Picture Book?
The People Could Fly: The Picture Book has an AR reading level of 3.3, which places it at a 3rd 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.