The Trumpet of the Swan (full color)
by E. B. White
Harper Collins 2001
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- finding your voice
- perseverance
- friendship
- family
- resourcefulness
- responsibility
- music
- self-advocacy
About this book
Louis is a trumpeter swan who can’t make a sound, so he finds creative ways to communicate—first by learning to read and write, and then by making music with a real brass trumpet. His adventures take him from wild lakes to bustling cities as he works hard to find his voice and win the heart of Serena. With gentle humor and heart, E. B. White explores perseverance, responsibility, and the joy of music. Perfect for readers who love animal stories and classic adventures in grades 3–6.
Setting: North American wilderness and big-city parks (Montana, Canada, Boston, Philadelphia), mid-20th century
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Trumpet of the Swan (full color) right for my child?
Yes — The Trumpet of the Swan (full color) is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.9, which is typical for 4th 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 finding your voice, perseverance, friendship.
How long does it take to read The Trumpet of the Swan (full color)?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, The Trumpet of the Swan (full color) takes around 4.5h to finish. The book has 40,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Trumpet of the Swan (full color) have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Trumpet of the Swan (full color) has an AR quiz available, worth 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 Trumpet of the Swan (full color)?
The Trumpet of the Swan (full color) has an AR reading level of 4.9, which places it at a 4th 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.