EllRay Jakes Is Not a Chicken

My son really liked this book. He even used it as his model for a school project. I read another reviewer say she didn't like it because Ellray didn't go to his parents or teacher about the bullying, but it brought up a good discussion about why thats not a good idea and we talked about what he couldve done instead. I also read someone say there were a lot of stereotypical comments about girl vs boy types of behaviors. My son picked up on this a time or two also. There are plenty of kids who still think like that so its another teachable moment. Ellray and the bully fight it out and leave the fight with a sort of mutual respect. Again, this is not how schools preach about what to do, but it still happens. In the end Ellrays parents find out and invite the bully to an amusement park with them. Ellray and the bully have fun together and it ends on a high note. This may seem a little far fetched but points out how he and the bully are not that different. Overall it was a pretty good book but one that should be read with a parent so you can a discussion with your child about any questionable topics.

My 3rd grader enjoyed reading this book. He is looking forward to continue this series. He was able to read it on his own without help.

Ultimately this is a good story but it starts with EllRay being in a war in his class. Of course for no reason, just because kids can be cruel. This can be tough for someone that suffers from self esteem issues to get through to the end for the big payoff and moral of the story. Mine couldn't get past the second chapter. You may want to give your kid a heads up so they persevere to the end.

I can say the little guy that received the first four books of this series was totally immersed in the storyline and couldn't put the books down. Ellray provided a number of similarities for the young man gifted the books, which made it even easier for him to enjoy the books. The added plus is that many of the scenarios covered are things he has experienced and provided more light bulb moments to help him understand what his parents have said to him.

My son loves this series! We started with 'EllRay Jakes Stands Tall" while he was just starting 1st grade and the events in the story were perfectly aligned with what he was experiencing in school.

My 7 yo old son loved this book. I can’t wait to order more of this series. I like that it’s a book with a central character who looks like my son. I think that’s very important for children.

8 year old son loved it!!

Bought this for a friends grandchild and she loves it. She can read it by herself now and always wants to share it with someone (Grandma is always a willing listener).

My son loves Elray books, perfect for ages 6-12