World War II Close Up: They Saved the Stallions
Scholastic Inc. 2024
Great fit for 6th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Themes include wartime ethics
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Genre
Themes
- courage
- rescue
- human-animal bond
- cultural preservation
- teamwork and cooperation
- perseverance
- wartime ethics
- hope
About this book
This gripping narrative nonfiction tells the true story of how a small group of riders, caretakers, and soldiers raced to protect the world-famous Lipizzaner horses of Vienna during World War II. Deborah Hopkinson blends fast-paced storytelling with primary-source research to put readers right inside the stables, courtyards, and war-torn countryside. It’s perfect for horse lovers and history fans who enjoy real-life adventures with high stakes. Clear, accessible chapters and archival photos help middle grade readers build background knowledge and critical thinking without spoilers.
Setting: Vienna, Austria and Central Europe during World War II (1939–1945)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is World War II Close Up: They Saved the Stallions right for my child?
Yes — World War II Close Up: They Saved the Stallions is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6.4, 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 courage, rescue, human-animal bond.
How long does it take to read World War II Close Up: They Saved the Stallions?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, World War II Close Up: They Saved the Stallions takes around 4.1h to finish. The book has 43,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does World War II Close Up: They Saved the Stallions have an AR quiz?
Yes — World War II Close Up: They Saved the Stallions has an AR quiz available, worth 6 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 World War II Close Up: They Saved the Stallions?
World War II Close Up: They Saved the Stallions has an AR reading level of 6.4, 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.