Cover Image: Rachel Friedman Breaks the Rules

Rachel Friedman Breaks the Rules

Pub Date:   |   Archive Date:

Member Reviews

This is a cute little chapter book that should appeal to Jewish families. It has all the requisite tropes of the day, but don't let that stop you from focusing on Rachel, a very imperfect but lovable little girl. Feisty girls will enjoy the story greatly.

Thank you to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. I look forward to more of Rachel Friedman!

Was this review helpful?

This was a short and sweet read. I enjoyed learning about Rachel and her life. I liked learning more about Jewish traditions. I think this is a very important books for kids now. The only thing I didn’t like was the length. The story felt too short, and it would have been nice to see her meet her gymnast idol unless there is going to be another book. I highly recommend this book.

Was this review helpful?

I loved the 100% Jewishness of this one, but I found Rachel's narrative voice to be obnoxious and alienating. And while I was somewhat charmed by her antics at shul, the rabbi's and community's reactions didn't quite ring true to me.

Was this review helpful?

Fantastic chapter book feature a precocious and relatable character that young readers will want to go on adventure after adventure with. Highly recommend!

Was this review helpful?

An early middle grade novel about a Jewish gymnast being raised by her single father? Yes please. Rachel is flawed but likeable, and like any elementary school kid (or human??) she struggles to follow rules, especially if she doesn't understand the reason behind the rule. Kapit does a wonderful job of allowing the reader to quickly fall in love with Rachel and root for her success. My only concern was that the ending was super didactic, which is not my favorite. I love how many kids will be able to see themselves in this book, but wish it had ended a little differently. Will still recommend all over the place.

Was this review helpful?

This is a fun story for young kids. The illustrations—and their very expressive characters—are my favorite part of this book.

Was this review helpful?

Rachel Friedman is a delightful and relatable main character who will quickly join the beloved ranks of Ramona Quimby and Ryan Hart. Rachel's story provides really strong representation for both Jewish children and children with ADHD, and her pluck and penchant for breaking the rules will be understandable to all elementary school readers. This book is ideal for a second or third grade independent reader and would make a great read aloud for younger children as well.

Was this review helpful?