June 1, 2016
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.
Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
July 1, 2016
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.
(Copyright 2016 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)