Psalm 101:3
Quick Answer: Prayerfully Consider
Concern Level: Medium-Low
The most important thing to know about this book is that we see life through the eyes of a young man who is all-in on avoiding attention, blending in ... → Continue reading below
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VERDICT: Prayerfully Consider
Concern Level: Medium-Low
Christian Parent Review
Concern LevelMedium-Low
Concerning & Potentially Concerning Content
The most important thing to know about this book is that we see life through the eyes of a young man who is all-in on avoiding attention, blending in and not upsetting his overworked/overstressed mom. Sadly this means a constant stream of dishonesty. He will pretend to read a book, lie about having work/reading completed, lie about why he moved, fake a medical issue to get out of his turn to speak and on and on. This has the feel of being portrayed as ‘understandable’ by the author. There is even a comment that “it didn’t really feel like a lie. I think it was more about not liking the truth”. Some of his internal dialog is also just not very kind, especially at first. For example, he wonders if there is some type of prize for a class accomplishment, remarking that it might be “getting your name written on the board or something stupid like that”.
VerdictPrayerfully Consider
Our Thoughts
This story does a great job of something that is very valuable… putting your child in the shoes of someone else, likely much different than themselves. Empathy is such a valuable thing and stories like this can really help grow that in your home. In addition to this, the young lady who comes to welcome him to the new school is such a wonderful character who will motivate and remind children to pursue kindness. She has such a strong, positive impact on his life at a time when he really, really needs it. For a child that is mature enough to see the negative content for what it is… a child who is experiencing brokenness and in need of help, this can be a story to drive growth in empathy. One to Prayerfully Consider for your child.
Plot SummaryNote: This information is typically from the publisher.Use with caution
A coming-of-age story about a boy who is used to flying under the radar, and the classroom of kids determined to help him stand out. This touching friendship tale is the perfect read for fans of Fish in a Tree and Song for a Whale. If Austin picked a color to describe his life, it would be tumbleweed brown. Austin doesn't like standing out. He's always the new kid, and there's no hiding his size. Plus, Austin has a secret: he struggles to read. Then Austin meets Bertie, who is razzmatazz. Everything about Bertie is bursting! But the best part of his newest school is the Safety Squad, with their laser lemon vests. Their easy confidence and leadership stand out in the coolest way. Even when things are not so vibrant and life at home makes Austin feel pacific blue, for the first time, he wants to leave a mark. And the more Austin speaks up, the more he finds he may not be that different after all.
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Scripture Reflection
Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
— Joshua 1:8-9
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