Too Much Noise
by Ann McGovern
Tandem Library 1992
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- gratitude
- perspective
- problem-solving
- family life
- humor
- noise vs. quiet
- contentment
- listening
About this book
A classic folktale retold with humor, Too Much Noise follows an old man who thinks his house is unbearably loud. Seeking help, he visits a wise man who offers surprising advice that changes how he hears the commotion at home. The simple, repetitive text and playful buildup make it perfect for emerging readers and read-alouds. Kids enjoy the silly sounds, the cumulative story pattern, and the satisfying message about perspective.
Setting: a small cottage in a rural village
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Too Much Noise right for my child?
Yes — Too Much Noise is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.1, which is typical for 2nd 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 gratitude, perspective, problem-solving.
How long does it take to read Too Much Noise?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Too Much Noise takes around 5m to finish. The book has 600 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Too Much Noise have an AR quiz?
Yes — Too Much Noise 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 Too Much Noise?
Too Much Noise has an AR reading level of 2.1, which places it at a 2nd 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.