On our way to first grade
Kate Howard
On our way to first grade
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Kate Howard
The text is written at a 1st grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for younger children (ages 5–8), and the content is gentle with no concerning themes.
We may earn a commission from these links. Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores with every purchase.
About This Book
Ben is about to leave the fun world of kindergarten behind—and he's not sure if first grade can top it. What if first grade is nothing like the adventures he's had? The big question is, can Ben find new fun and friends in this brand-new chapter?
Themes
Quick Assessment
This early reader explores the transition from kindergarten to first grade, focusing on a child's feelings about starting a new school year. It addresses common concerns young children may have about change and new experiences, making it appropriate for ages 5 to 8. The book emphasizes themes of friendship and school adjustment without any intense content.
Why we rated On our way to first grade 6LE
On our way to first grade is written at a Level 1-2 reading level across 32 pages. Strong independent readers around grade 2.5 can typically handle this book on their own; with parent or teacher support, On our way to first grade works for readers up to grade 3.5.
We rate On our way to first grade as 6LE ("Light — Emotional") because the content sits in the "Gentle" range — no conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Across our four dimensions (emotional, physical, social, thematic) the book reads as evenly gentle; no single dimension stands out as a concern.
No specific content flags were raised by community reviewers, which is consistent with the gentle intensity score.
Thematically, On our way to first grade explores friendship, education, and family — these threads give the book room to mean different things to different readers.
Good fit for
- ✓ Children in the Ages 5-8 range — the maturity and attention span match the story's pacing.
- ✓ Patient readers who enjoy slower, character-driven stories.
- ✓ Kids drawn to stories about friendship, education, family.
Maybe not for
- ! Reluctant readers who need a fast hook — the pacing here rewards patience.
For Parents
Content Intensity
6LE — Light — EmotionalNo conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.
Was our "Gentle" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
1/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
1/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
Similar Books
Based on content and theme analysis
Off to First Grade
Louise Borden
Off to First Grade
Louise Borden
On the first day of kindergarten
Tish Rabe
On the first day of kindergarten
Tish Rabe
My First Day at School
Thomas Kingsley Troupe
My First Day at School
Thomas Kingsley Troupe
I'm Going to School
Chris Dickason
I'm Going to School
Chris Dickason
Off To Kindergarten
Tony Johnston
Off To Kindergarten
Tony Johnston
How to Start First Grade
Cathy Hapka
How to Start First Grade
Cathy Hapka
Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9780545823401
- Pages
- 32
- Publisher
- Scholastic Inc.
- Published
- 2015
- Type
- Fiction