The Wonder of Color
by Catherine Stier
Albert Whitman & Company 2022
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- curiosity
- creativity
- science and art
- experimentation
- problem-solving
- perseverance
- self-expression
- learning process
About this book
When a school mural contest is announced, James dives into the world of color to make his artwork stand out. His curiosity leads him to explore prisms, light waves, and the color wheel, discovering how our eyes see color along the way. Blending art and STEM, this informational picture book encourages hands-on experimentation and creative problem-solving. Perfect for early elementary readers who love making, mixing, and asking why.
Setting: a contemporary elementary school and home art/science exploration
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Wonder of Color right for my child?
Yes — The Wonder of Color is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.9, 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 curiosity, creativity, science and art.
How long does it take to read The Wonder of Color?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, The Wonder of Color takes around 8m to finish. The book has 1,100 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Wonder of Color have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Wonder of Color 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 Wonder of Color?
The Wonder of Color has an AR reading level of 3.9, 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.