Twenty and Ten
by Claire Huchet Bishop, Claire Bishop, Claire Huchet Bishop, Bishop, Claire Huchet. Du Bois, William Pßene,
Penguin Publishing Group 1952
Easy read — content targets 4th–8th grade
Reading level 3.8 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- courage
- friendship
- resistance
- moral choices
- empathy
- selflessness
- survival
About this book
Set in occupied France during World War II, this short novel follows twenty schoolchildren who must decide whether to hide ten Jewish children from Nazi soldiers. Told with clear, accessible prose and quiet suspense, it highlights everyday bravery and the power of doing what’s right. It’s a compelling, quick read for middle-grade readers ready to explore historical themes in a gentle but gripping way. Kids enjoy the tense moments, strong friendships, and the triumphant spirit at the heart of the story.
Setting: rural France under Nazi occupation during World War II
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Twenty and Ten right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Twenty and Ten. The reading level is AR 3.8, which is typical for 3rd 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 courage, friendship, resistance.
How long does it take to read Twenty and Ten?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Twenty and Ten takes around 59m to finish. The book has 7,900 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Twenty and Ten have an AR quiz?
Yes — Twenty and Ten has an AR quiz available, worth 1 point. 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 Twenty and Ten?
Twenty and Ten has an AR reading level of 3.8, which places it at a 3rd 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.