Goggles

Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this fast-paced, exhilarating tale keeps readers enthralled as the boys ingeniously evade the bullies. Expressive, full-color illustrations heighten the suspense.
Community Reviews
There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What's the Story?
Two small boys, outnumbered and outweighed, outsmart their tormentors in a riveting tale that reminds readers that brainpower is more effective than brute power. Richly colored and highly detailed illustrations provide a vivid portrayal of an urban landscape.
Is It Any Good?
The universal appeal of this story reaches beyond gender, race, and locale. Whether city dwellers or suburbans, whether male or female, and regardless of ethnicity, most children have had encounters with bullies of some sort and can empathize with Peter and Archie's predicament. Kids will be rooting for the intrepid duo throughout their adrenaline-pumping adventure. The triumph over the bullies is rewarding and empowering for children.
The multitextured illustrations of this work earned Ezra Jack Keats a Caldecott Honor award. Using vibrant colors that fill every inch of the pages, Keats re-creates the city streets that are Archie and Peter's playground. Dark colors dominate, from the sky's smoky blue to the dusky taupes of the looming buildings. Cut paper layered over the paintings adds to their dimensionality. Keats's attention to detail, such as crayon scribbles overlaid on paintings of walls to simulate graffiti, contributes to the realism of the work and captures readers' attention.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about bullying. Why do you think some kids bully others? What do you think of the way Peter and Archie handle the bullies in the story?
Book Details
- Author: Ezra Jack Keats
- Illustrator: Ezra Jack Keats
- Genre: Picture Book
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Penguin Group
- Publication date: November 1, 1998
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 4 - 7
- Number of pages: 40
- Award: Caldecott Medal and Honors
- Last updated: July 12, 2017
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate