Tommy
The Gun That Changed America
Macmillan + ORM 2015
Great fit for 8th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- technology and its consequences
- crime and law enforcement
- ethics of invention
- media and myth-making
- government and public policy
- American history
- power and responsibility
- innovation
About this book
This fast-paced nonfiction explores how John T. Thompson’s quest to help soldiers led to the invention of the Thompson submachine gun—and how it unexpectedly became an icon of Prohibition-era crime. Through gripping anecdotes, photos, and primary sources, the book traces the Tommy gun’s path from battlefield idea to headline-making weapon, and the pushback that sparked early gun-control debates. It’s a compelling read for teens who like true crime, history, and technology. Clear context and thoughtful storytelling help readers consider the consequences of innovation and policy.
Setting: United States, 1910s–1930s Prohibition era and the decades that followed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tommy right for my child?
Yes — Tommy is a great fit for 8th grade. The reading level is AR 8.6, which is typical for 8th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include technology and its consequences, crime and law enforcement, ethics of invention.
How long does it take to read Tommy?
At a typical 8th grade reading pace, Tommy takes around 5.7h to finish. The book has 60,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Tommy have an AR quiz?
Yes — Tommy has an AR quiz available, worth 10 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 Tommy?
Tommy has an AR reading level of 8.6, which places it at a 8th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — 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.