The Mouse and the Motorcycle

About this book

A mouse named Ralph befriends a boy at a mountain hotel and discovers he can ride the boy's toy motorcycle if he makes motor noises. Cleary's Newbery-honored novel is a staple early-chapter-book assignment in 2nd-4th grade.

Where this book is assigned

• Common Core State Standards (ELA)

  • recommended· 3rd gradesource: CCSS ELA Appendix B, grades 2-3 exemplar
  • recommended· 3rd grade · Oregonsource: Oregon DOE — Beverly Cleary as state author

Similar grade-level books

• 
  Matilda
  Roald Dahl · 840L
• 
  Charlotte's Web
  E.B. White · 680L
• 
  The BFG
  Roald Dahl · 720L
• 
  Bridge to Terabithia
  Katherine Paterson · 810L

Common questions

What grade level is The Mouse and the Motorcycle?

The Mouse and the Motorcycle is most commonly assigned in US schools in grades 2–4, with a Lexile measure of 860L. Specific grade placement varies by curriculum — AP Literature and IB English Literature typically use it in grades 11-12.

What is the Lexile level of The Mouse and the Motorcycle?

The Mouse and the Motorcycle has a Lexile measure of 860L according to MetaMetrics. Lexile measures text complexity, not content maturity — check the grade range and content notes separately for age-appropriateness.

What curricula assign The Mouse and the Motorcycle?

The Mouse and the Motorcycle appears on reading lists for Common Core State Standards (ELA). Each assignment on this site links to its primary-source citation.

Is The Mouse and the Motorcycle banned in schools?

The Mouse and the Motorcycle does not appear in PEN America's Index of School Book Bans 2022-2024. No documented multi-district removals on record, but individual districts may challenge titles locally.

What themes does The Mouse and the Motorcycle explore?

Central themes in The Mouse and the Motorcycle include friendship, responsibility, coming of age, adventure. These themes match how the book is discussed in most curriculum guides and AP Literature prompts.