[Publib] The Hobbit

[Victoria Kemp]

Dear listmates,
I had an unusual problem over the weekend. A parent called to say his
child had to read a book for a book report. The book had to be an 8th
grade reading level. The child wanted to read "The Hobbit, or there and
back again." The child's teacher said this book was not 8th grade
reading. I was stunned. I did not read this book until I was a junior in
high school (back when dinosaurs roamed the earth) and I was a really
advanced reader (if I do say so myself). Lo, and behold, when you look
up "The Hobbit," the ATOS (whatever that is) reading level is 6.6. I
assume this means it is 6th grade reading level. What is up with this
accelerated reading thing? How in the world could "The Hobbit" be
classed so low? I think it would take an exceptional 6th grader to read
this book, especially in light of all the current ranting regarding the
lack of reading done in our schools.     
Am I missing something here? Inquiring minds want to know.     
Sincerely,     
Viccy Kemp     
The opinions are my own; the library wouldn't want 'em!