With the Fire on High
2019
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- teen parenthood
- family and community
- identity and heritage
- ambition and dreams
- resilience
- food and culinary arts
- friendship
- first love
About this book
Emoni Santiago is a high school senior, a devoted teen mom, and a natural in the kitchen where her recipes seem to hold a little magic. Balancing school, work, and family, she joins a culinary arts program that could turn her passion into a future. As opportunities open up, Emoni must decide how to chase her dreams while staying true to her responsibilities and her heritage. Told with warmth and heart, this contemporary novel resonates with readers who love food, family stories, and determined heroines.
Setting: contemporary Philadelphia; high school culinary program with opportunities to travel abroad
Frequently Asked Questions
Is With the Fire on High right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for With the Fire on High. The reading level is AR 5, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include teen parenthood, family and community, identity and heritage.
How long does it take to read With the Fire on High?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, With the Fire on High takes around 8.6h to finish. The book has 85,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does With the Fire on High have an AR quiz?
Yes — With the Fire on High has an AR quiz available, worth 10 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 With the Fire on High?
With the Fire on High has an AR reading level of 5, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — 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.