When my name was Keoko
Brand: Turtleback 2002
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Themes include war and occupation
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- family loyalty
- courage
- resistance
- cultural oppression
- resilience
- war and occupation
- hope
About this book
Set in Korea during World War II, this story follows siblings Sun-hee and Tae-yul as Japanese rule forces them to change their names and give up their language and traditions. Told in alternating voices, the book shows how ordinary kids find quiet ways to resist, protect their family, and hold on to who they are. It’s perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy historical stories with strong character voices. Kids are drawn to the suspense, the close-knit sibling bond, and the window into a time and place not often covered in school.
Setting: Korea under Japanese occupation, 1940–1945 (primarily Seoul)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is When my name was Keoko right for my child?
Yes — When my name was Keoko is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.7, which is typical for 4th 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 identity, family loyalty, courage.
How long does it take to read When my name was Keoko?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, When my name was Keoko takes around 5.9h to finish. The book has 53,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does When my name was Keoko have an AR quiz?
Yes — When my name was Keoko has an AR quiz available, worth 7 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 my name was Keoko?
When my name was Keoko has an AR reading level of 4.7, which places it at a 4th 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.