When I was built
by Jennifer Thermes
Henry Holt & Co. 2001
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
Themes include stewardship and care
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Genre
Themes
- home and family
- change over time
- community
- tradition
- American history
- stewardship and care
- memory
- architecture and building
About this book
Told from the perspective of a sturdy old house, this picture book traces how it was built and how life around it has changed through the years. Readers see different families, fashions, and technologies come and go while the home remains a comforting constant. With detailed illustrations and gentle text, it invites kids to notice history in everyday places. Perfect for young readers curious about the past and the idea of what makes a house a home.
Setting: a New England farmhouse across several generations, 18th century to present
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is When I was built right for my child?
Yes — When I was built is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.7, which is typical for 3rd 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 home and family, change over time, community.
How long does it take to read When I was built?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, When I was built takes around 8m to finish. The book has 1,100 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does When I was built have an AR quiz?
Yes — When I was built 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 When I was built?
When I was built has an AR reading level of 3.7, which places it at a 3rd 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.