Trouble
by Jane Kurtz
Harcourt Brace 1997
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- family
- responsibility
- choices and consequences
- self-control
- courage
- perseverance
- cultural heritage
About this book
In this Ethiopian-set picture book, a lively boy named Tekleh finds that trouble seems to follow him wherever he goes, even when he’s trying to be helpful. With gentle guidance from his father and a lot of determination, Tekleh learns to think before he acts and to face challenges with care. Vivid, folk-inspired art and rhythmic language bring village life to the page. A great choice for young readers who enjoy humor, family stories, and glimpses of life in other cultures.
Setting: rural Ethiopia, contemporary village life
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Trouble right for my child?
Yes — Trouble is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.7, 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 family, responsibility, choices and consequences.
How long does it take to read Trouble?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Trouble takes around 8m to finish. The book has 900 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Trouble have an AR quiz?
Yes — Trouble 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 Trouble?
Trouble has an AR reading level of 2.7, 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.