Concerning & Potentially Concerning Content

The primary concern around this short book is the relationship between Roscoe (a 1st grade boy) and his older brother. The story seems to imply it is inevitable and ok that the brothers are unkind to each other and call each other names. The parents do nothing to dissuade this. This is especially disappointing in a book targeting this age group. At one point he mentions that to wake up his brother he jumps on his bed, screams “RISE AND SHINE YOU BUM”, and squirts juice box on his nose and toes. Again, his parents have not correction. Roscoe’s wishlist includes a mute button for his little sister and big brother. Speaking of his sister, at one point he says that everyone finds his sister adorable, which he the remarks “It’s disgusting”. He also mentions playing surgeon with his sister’s doll, remarking that “the patient died”. “Armpit farts” are also mentioned as well as painting a hamster green. Mom uses “educational cartoons” for youngest sister in the morning, at least until her 1st cup of coffee.