Whaling Days
Tandem Library 1993
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- seafaring life
- courage
- danger and risk
- human vs. nature
- teamwork
- technology and industry
- history and exploration
- environmental ethics
About this book
Whaling Days takes readers aboard a 19th-century whaling ship to see how sailors lived and worked at sea. Clear, engaging text and detailed art explain the tools, jobs, and dangers of the whaling industry, from launching small boats to processing the catch. It’s a vivid slice of maritime history that supports social studies units and sparks discussion about humans and the natural world. Great for kids who enjoy real-life adventures and learning how people worked in the past.
Setting: aboard New England whaling ships and the open ocean, 19th century
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Whaling Days right for my child?
Yes — Whaling Days is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.8, which is typical for 5th 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 seafaring life, courage, danger and risk.
How long does it take to read Whaling Days?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Whaling Days takes around 13m to finish. The book has 2,200 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Whaling Days have an AR quiz?
Yes — Whaling Days 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 Whaling Days?
Whaling Days has an AR reading level of 5.8, which places it at a 5th 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.