Together Apart
by Dianne E. Gray
Houghton Mifflin 2002
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- family
- divorce and separation
- sibling bonds
- identity
- resilience
- belonging
- communication
- growing up
About this book
This contemporary novel follows two siblings learning how to stay close while living in separate households after their parents split. As they adjust to new routines, schools, and expectations, they discover what family means and how to speak up for themselves. With honest emotion, gentle humor, and hopeful moments, it’s a relatable read for middle graders navigating change. Readers who enjoy realistic stories about family, resilience, and finding your place will be drawn in.
Setting: contemporary small-town Midwest
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Together Apart right for my child?
Yes — Together Apart is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5, 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 family, divorce and separation, sibling bonds.
How long does it take to read Together Apart?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Together Apart takes around 5.3h to finish. The book has 52,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Together Apart have an AR quiz?
Yes — Together Apart has an AR quiz available, worth 7 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 Together Apart?
Together Apart has an AR reading level of 5, 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.