The main concern revolves around lying and sneakiness. Much of this revolves around grandpa. He lets them ride in the basket of his moped, even though they all know it is not allowed. After hearing a story someone told grandpa remarks she, “tells such good lies, it is like music to my ears. We could all learn something from her.” Grandpa gives them permission for a stunt he knows the parents wouldn’t allow. He also says, “Trill, sometimes it is all right to tell white lies” and sets the example by doing it. They also mention in a positive light that Dad allows him to slip him his cabbage when Mom isn’t looking. They also take a boat without asking, knowing it is wrong. There is a mention of not being allowed to see PG-13 movies, but then follows up by saying he has seen a few anyway.
There are a few names (e.g., “stupid haddock”) as well as a handful of references to people being old, stupid, idiots and fat. The last one comes up a few times in reference to an aunt. Most of this comes from the young girl, who is rough around the edges. At one point she punches a boy who annoys her.
There are also a few dangerous stunts pulled off by the kids, such as connecting a line between two second stories they attempt to cross.
There is also a disappointing moment where grandma and grandpa come out wearing cross-dressed wedding outfits. This is meant to be “fun” and “funny”. While this doesn’t come across as trying to promote unbiblical agendas, it is still unfortunate and something many may want to avoid. An uncle also gets angry and says he will, “bash your heads right down into your stomachs if they return”. They make up soon after, but this is not speech kiddos will be used to hearing.
Finally, the book switches from very light to pretty serious for a bit towards the end. There is a death of a dear loved one. One main character runs away. Unfortunately, she is never really reprimanded for this and told how dangerous it was, but instead gets to stay where she ran to. There is also a mention of a child they know dying in a car wreck.