Time of Wonder
Dutton Juvenile 1972
Challenging read for K–3rd grade
Reading level 4.6 (4th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- nature and seasons
- family
- wonder and observation
- island life
- weather and storms
- adventure
- resilience
- change
About this book
This Caldecott Medal classic follows a family through a summer on a Maine island, capturing foggy mornings, seabirds, sailing, and the awesome power of a storm. Robert McCloskey’s poetic language and luminous illustrations invite readers to slow down and notice the natural world. It’s a gentle, reflective read-aloud that sparks curiosity about the sea and weather. Perfect for younger listeners and early readers who enjoy nature, coastal settings, and quiet adventure.
Setting: a coastal island in Maine during summer
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Time of Wonder right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Time of Wonder. The reading level is AR 4.6, 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 nature and seasons, family, wonder and observation.
How long does it take to read Time of Wonder?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Time of Wonder takes around 10m to finish. The book has 1,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Time of Wonder have an AR quiz?
Yes — Time of Wonder 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 Time of Wonder?
Time of Wonder has an AR reading level of 4.6, 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.