Thurgood
by Jonah Winter
National Geographic Books 2019
Challenging read for K–3rd grade
Reading level 4.9 (4th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range
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Genre
Themes
- civil rights
- justice and fairness
- perseverance
- leadership
- speaking up
- equality
- history
- overcoming adversity
About this book
This picture-book biography introduces Thurgood Marshall, from his outspoken Baltimore childhood to his rise as a groundbreaking civil rights lawyer and the first Black justice on the U.S. Supreme Court. Clear, engaging text and powerful illustrations show how debate, determination, and a passion for fairness shaped his life’s work. It’s a great pick for young readers learning about American history, justice, and speaking up for what’s right. Kids enjoy the lively voice, memorable scenes, and the inspiring message that one person can change the law—and lives.
Setting: Baltimore and the United States, early to mid-20th century; courts and the U.S. Supreme Court
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Thurgood right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Thurgood. The reading level is AR 4.9, which is typical for 4th 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 civil rights, justice and fairness, perseverance.
How long does it take to read Thurgood?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Thurgood takes around 8m to finish. The book has 1,200 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Thurgood have an AR quiz?
Yes — Thurgood 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 Thurgood?
Thurgood has an AR reading level of 4.9, which places it at a 4th 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.