A Long Pitch Home
by Natalie Dias Lorenzi
Charlesbridge Publishing 2016
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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About this book
A sensitive and endearing middle grade novel about a young Pakistani immigrant adjusting to his new life in contemporary America Ten-year-old Bilal liked his life back home in Pakistan. He was a star on his cricket team. But when his father suddenly sends the family to live with their aunt and uncle in America, nothing is familiar. While Bilal tries to keep up with his cousin Jalaal by joining a baseball league and practicing his English, he wonders when his father will join the family in Virginia. Maybe if Bilal can prove himself on the pitcher’s mound, his father will make it to see him play. But playing baseball means navigating relationships with the guys, and with Jordan, the only girl on the team—the player no one but Bilal wants to be friends with.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Long Pitch Home right for my child?
Yes — A Long Pitch Home is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.6, 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).
How long does it take to read A Long Pitch Home?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, A Long Pitch Home takes around 6.9h to finish. The book has 61,971 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does A Long Pitch Home have an AR quiz?
Yes — A Long Pitch Home has an AR quiz available, worth 9 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 A Long Pitch Home?
A Long Pitch Home has an AR reading level of 4.6, 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.