What Color is My World?
The Lost History of African-American Inventors
by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Raymond Obstfeld, Ben Boos, A. G. Ford
Candlewick Press 2012
Great fit for 6th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- innovation
- African American history
- STEM
- perseverance
- curiosity
- role models
- identity and pride
About this book
Twins Ella and Herbie meet a friendly handyman who opens their eyes to the everyday inventions created by African American innovators. Through lively dialogue, lift-the-flap facts, and eye-catching art, readers discover the people behind items like the microphone and more. It’s an engaging blend of story and history that celebrates curiosity, problem-solving, and hidden heroes. Great for kids who enjoy STEM topics and short, fascinating biographies.
Setting: contemporary home framing stories with historical snapshots across the United States, 19th–20th centuries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is What Color is My World? right for my child?
Yes — What Color is My World? is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6.3, which is typical for 6th 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 innovation, African American history, STEM.
How long does it take to read What Color is My World??
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, What Color is My World? takes around 46m to finish. The book has 8,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does What Color is My World? have an AR quiz?
Yes — What Color is My World? 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 What Color is My World??
What Color is My World? has an AR reading level of 6.3, which places it at a 6th 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.