Winston 500
by Eric Ethan
Gareth Stevens Publishing 1999
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- competition
- teamwork
- perseverance
- technology in sports
- risk and safety
- sportsmanship
About this book
This short, photo-packed nonfiction book introduces readers to the high-speed excitement of the Winston 500 at Talladega. It explains how the race works, highlights famous drivers and memorable moments, and touches on the track’s unique challenges. Clear text, bold images, and quick facts make it appealing to racing fans and reluctant readers alike. A great pick for kids who love cars, speed, and real-life sports action.
Setting: Talladega Superspeedway, Alabama; NASCAR racing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Winston 500 right for my child?
Yes — Winston 500 is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.1, 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 competition, teamwork, perseverance.
How long does it take to read Winston 500?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Winston 500 takes around 7m to finish. The book has 1,200 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Winston 500 have an AR quiz?
Yes — Winston 500 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 Winston 500?
Winston 500 has an AR reading level of 5.1, 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.