Where Are You From?
by Yamile Saied Méndez
HarperCollins 2020
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- heritage and culture
- belonging
- family love
- self-acceptance
- immigration
- intergenerational wisdom
- pride
About this book
A young girl is constantly asked where she’s really from, a question that leaves her unsure—until her abuelo answers with a loving, poetic celebration of family, land, and heritage. This lyrical picture book reassures children that identity is more than one place or label. It’s perfect for sparking conversations about culture, belonging, and pride in the classroom or at home. Readers are drawn to its warm family bond and affirming message.
Setting: contemporary, unspecified setting with imagery inspired by Latin America and family memories
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Where Are You From? right for my child?
Yes — Where Are You From? is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.8, which is typical for 2nd grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include identity, heritage and culture, belonging.
How long does it take to read Where Are You From??
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Where Are You From? takes around 6m to finish. The book has 700 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Where Are You From? have an AR quiz?
Yes — Where Are You From? has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 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 Where Are You From??
Where Are You From? has an AR reading level of 2.8, which places it at a 2nd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — 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.