FICTION

Ellray Jakes Stands Tall

by Sally WARNER
illus. by Brian Biggs. 146p. (Ellray Jakes). Viking. Apr. 2016. Tr $14.99. ISBN 9780451469137.
COPY ISBN
Gr 2–4—When the third graders at EllRay's elementary school become obsessed with basketball, EllRay is bummed to be the shortest kid in his class. Although he's just as good at the drills as the other kids, he's worried that no one will want him for their team. When EllRay lets slip that he thinks basketball should be something he "should be naturally good at" as an African-American boy, his dad has a discussion about race with him, bringing some serious moments to this humorous book. Cartoon-style black-and-white spot illustrations lend themselves well to the humor in the story. Young readers just starting their own team sports will identify with EllRay's efforts and doubts.
When "pre-basketball" is offered, eight-year-old African American boy EllRay jumps at the chance; he learns that practice, support from friends, and self-confidence help him "stand tall" on and off the court. Like other EllRay books, this warm ninth volume centers on friendship and navigating one's place in the world as EllRay helps his little sister, Alfie, and his new friend Marco.
Reviewed by Staff , Jun 01, 2016

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BOOKS

Maddie and Mabel Ready for Snow
by Allen, Kari
BOOKS

Welcome to the Woofmore
by Gephart, Donna & Lori Haskins Houran
BOOKS

Eleven Houses
by Oakes, Colleen
BOOKS

Don’t Let the Forest In
by Drews, CG
BOOKS

Summer Nights and Meteorites
by Reynolds, Hannah
BOOKS

A Vile Season
by Ferraro, David
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?