Rating: My bookshelf

Reading Level: Early Elementary

A small boy struggles with his mistakes, how to handle others’ mistakes, truthfulness, and his identity/image. Important: I do NOT recommend the first book in the series, EllRay Jakes is not a Chicken.

Potential minor concerns:

  • EllRay lies to cover up for his sister’s mistakes.
  • EllRay struggles with his identity & image. Is his identity *the one who makes mistakes*?
  • A classmate tries to get EllRay to lie for her. She distorts the truth.
  • I do NOT recommend the first book in the series, and for more info see my review of EllRay Jakes is not a Chicken.

Overall this book has strong themes of truth, honor, and I like that the principal and teacher are discerning and solid trustworthy adults in a culture where children’s books often don’t portray positive relationships with adults.

For another story where EllRay deals heavily with his own mistakes, see Book 2 in the series: EllRay Jakes is a Rock Star.

See also my review of Book 9: EllRay Jakes Stands Tall .