Washington at Valley Forge
Holiday House 2020
Great fit for 7th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- leadership
- perseverance
- sacrifice
- patriotism
- resilience
- teamwork
- hope
- overcoming adversity
About this book
Newbery Medalist Russell Freedman delivers a clear, engaging account of the desperate winter George Washington and his Continental Army spent at Valley Forge. Drawing on period quotes and vivid photographs and prints, the book shows how leadership, training, and grit helped transform a struggling force into a disciplined army. It’s ideal for upper elementary and middle school readers interested in the American Revolution and real-world stories of perseverance. Kids enjoy the dramatic stakes, the human details of camp life, and the sense of triumph against the odds.
Setting: Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, winter 1777–1778 during the American Revolution
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Washington at Valley Forge right for my child?
Yes — Washington at Valley Forge is a great fit for 7th grade. The reading level is AR 7.7, which is typical for 7th 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 leadership, perseverance, sacrifice.
How long does it take to read Washington at Valley Forge?
At a typical 7th grade reading pace, Washington at Valley Forge takes around 1.8h to finish. The book has 18,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Washington at Valley Forge have an AR quiz?
Yes — Washington at Valley Forge has an AR quiz available, worth 3 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 Washington at Valley Forge?
Washington at Valley Forge has an AR reading level of 7.7, which places it at a 7th 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.