This book celebrates all of the wrong type of behavior from start to finish. One of the worst examples for a Christian family is the relationship of the main character and his older sister. Throughout the entire book he calls her all types of names, purposely annoys her, celebrates when things go wrong for her, and it just plain mean to her. To make it worse, she returns much of the favor, as she is grumpy and rude. There is another boy in school he doesn’t like that he directs much of the same behavior towards. He is also mean, dishonest and has a poor work ethic. This extends to school, where he cheats, reads comics and draws when he should be listening/working. He is sat up front and complains he may actually have to listen. We get a glimpse of where this comes from when dad does something and then tells his son not to tell his mom. Mom and dad are often not very kind to each other.
Psalm 101:3
Quick Answer: Avoid
Concern Level: High
This book celebrates all of the wrong type of behavior from start to finish. One of the worst examples for a Christian family is the relationship of ... → Continue reading below
The Brilliant World of Tom Gates
VERDICT: Avoid
Concern Level: High
Christian Parent Review
Recently we reviewed a book that had an encouraging Bible verse on the very first page. We commented what a great sign this was for what turned out to be a beautiful, Godly book. Here we have nearly the opposite example. This book has the word “idiot” on the cover, foreshadowing the type of content that pervades this entire book. Unlike most of the other series in this sub-genre, there really is not much redeeming at all about this book. This is an avoid from start to finish for Christian families who would never want to encourage this type of speech, view of family/life, behavior and sense of ‘humor’.
Note: This information is typically from the publisher.
Use with caution
All Tom Gates wants to do is get tickets to see his favourite band when they come to town. It's not easy when he's up against Delia, his weirdo big sister. All of his plans seem to get him into major trouble!
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Other Reviews for this Book
Common Sense Media
MAJOR Caution here! This is a good example of why you need to use a lot of caution with (or just avoid) Common Sense Media. CSM can provide helpful insight into concerning content, but they often promote a liberal secular worldview that Christians should be very cautious of. Here, notice how nearly none of the extremely concerning content is mentioned as a warning for parents. Even worse the site promotes this book as one to find “Positive Role Models” with.
Read ReviewScripture Reflection
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.
— Proverbs 1:7-9