The Ugly Truth
by Jeff Kinney
Penguin Group Australia 2010
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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About this book
Greg Heffley has always been in a hurry to grow up. But is getting older really all it's cracked up to be? Greg suddenly finds himself dealing with the pressures of boy-girl parties, increased responsibilities, and even the awkward changes that come with getting older - all without his best friend, Rowley, at his side. Can Greg make it through on his own? Or will he have to face the 'ugly truth'?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Ugly Truth right for my child?
Yes — The Ugly Truth is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.2, 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).
How long does it take to read The Ugly Truth?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Ugly Truth takes around 2.4h to finish. The book has 23,513 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Ugly Truth have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Ugly Truth has an AR quiz available, worth 3 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 The Ugly Truth?
The Ugly Truth has an AR reading level of 5.2, 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.