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The Someday Birds book cover

The Someday Birds

by Sally J. Pla

HarperCollins 2018

Great fit for 5th grade

Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14

5th grade English Juvenile Fiction
352
Pages
10
AR Points
7.4h
Read time
AR Quiz Available
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Dolly Gray Children's Literature Award (2018)New York Public Library Best Books for KidsBank Street Best Children's Books of the YearDorothy Canfield Fisher Book Award ListMaryland Black-Eyed Susan Award NomineeWisconsin Library Association CBA Outstanding Books of the Year

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Themes

  • neurodiversity
  • family bonds
  • healing and resilience
  • self-acceptance
  • friendship
  • grief and hope
  • road trip adventure
  • nature and observation

About this book

Charlie, a bird-obsessed sixth grader who prefers life neat and predictable, sets out on a cross-country road trip with his siblings and an unexpected caretaker after his war-journalist dad is injured. As they chase the "Someday Birds" from Charlie’s life list, he slowly steps outside his comfort zone and discovers new strengths, friends, and ways to communicate. With humor, heart, and plenty of chicken nuggets, this story appeals to readers who enjoy realistic journeys about family, healing, and neurodiversity. Perfect for middle-grade readers who liked Counting by 7s and Fish in a Tree.

Setting: A contemporary cross-country road trip across the United States

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Someday Birds right for my child?

Yes — The Someday Birds is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.2, 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 neurodiversity, family bonds, healing and resilience.

How long does it take to read The Someday Birds?

At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Someday Birds takes around 7.4h to finish. The book has 73,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.

Does The Someday Birds have an AR quiz?

Yes — The Someday Birds has an AR quiz available, worth 10 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 Someday Birds?

The Someday Birds has an AR reading level of 5.2, 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.