FICTION

EllRay Jakes Rocks the Holidays!

by Sally Warner
EllRay Jakes Rocks the Holidays! illus. by Brian Biggs. 160p. (EllRay Jakes: Bk. 7). Viking. 2014. Tr $14.99. ISBN 9780451469090; pap. $5.99. ISBN 9780147512512.
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Gr 2–4—Though he's the smallest kid in his class, EllRay Jakes is huge when it comes to heart: this is one protagonist that readers of all stripes will gravitate toward. In this funny yet poignant holiday tale, the African American boy fears that his principal is encouraging him to emcee the school's winter concert merely as a nod to diversity. Warner perceptively addresses heavy issues such as race and culture as well as EllRay's more typical anxieties relating to friendship, family, and stage fright. Another gentle but satisfying outing with EllRay.
In a holiday-themed episode, EllRay finds himself the emcee of his school's Winter Wonderland show. When he accidentally hurts a friend's feelings, it results in an exploration of friendship, values, and race perfectly pitched for middle graders. EllRay must ultimately make a difficult choice and stand up for what he knows is right. Biggs's black-and-white illustrations capture all the emotional nuances.
Reviewed by Staff , Nov 01, 2014

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