Try It!
How Frieda Caplan Changed the Way We Eat
Beach Lane Books 2021
Challenging read for K–3rd grade
Reading level 4.2 (4th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range
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Genre
Themes
- innovation
- entrepreneurship
- curiosity and trying new things
- perseverance
- women in business
- food and culture
- breaking barriers
- diversity
About this book
This lively picture book biography celebrates Frieda Caplan, the trailblazing produce seller who invited Americans to taste beyond apples and potatoes. From mushrooms to kiwifruit and mangos, Frieda’s curiosity and courage helped new fruits and veggies find their way to everyday tables. Bright, engaging art and clear text make the story accessible for young readers, while encouraging them to be adventurous eaters. Perfect for units on food, entrepreneurship, and women’s history.
Setting: Los Angeles produce market and American grocery stores, 1950s–present
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Try It! right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Try It!. The reading level is AR 4.2, 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 innovation, entrepreneurship, curiosity and trying new things.
How long does it take to read Try It!?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Try It! takes around 7m to finish. The book has 1,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Try It! have an AR quiz?
Yes — Try It! 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 Try It!?
Try It! has an AR reading level of 4.2, 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.