Although this book wasn't relatable to me at all, it was still an enjoyable and an easy read for children of an elementary age. Oliver's parents were extremely over protective and just did not let Oliver be Oliver. Parents always want what is best for their kids but kids should be able to be independent and grow and learn on their own with help. This book would be a good read for incoorporating both literature and science as well as teaching kids about independence and 'changing the world.' ( )

This book was delightful and oddly relatable. As a kid, I often struggled with similar experiences as Oliver when dealing with over-assertive parents who tend to worry a little too much. Eventually, after repeatedly talking to my parents about it, they understood the problem. So as I kept reading this book, I just wanted Oliver to confront his parents so badly! This book reminded me of how difficult it can be for a child to speak their minds to an adult that they're supposed to respect and obey. Children hardly ever want to make their parents unhappy, so it's common for kids to conceal their disagreements, especially if parents don't provide space for their children to disagree. Kids disagreeing with their parents is perfectly natural, but parents may forget to consider that it's just as important to listen to your kids as much as they listen to the adults. This book was a wonderful reminder that relationships between children and adults can always be mutually educational. ( )

Oliver Olson! I feel so bad for you my friend. His parents will not let him do anything! Oliver feels like her will become an outsider and decides to take action. This book is a must read for children and parents alike and will be a favorite in your household. ( )

I really enjoyed this book. The author had Oliver narrate the story so we were able to live through Oliver and see how he felt inside about the things going on in his life. I can relate to this story a little bit because I remember my mom helping me with my projects when I was younger too. It gest frustrating when our parents are too involved in their kids' assignments/projects and everything that they do. As a child many kids just want the same thing Oliver wants just some freedom and not be over protective over every little thing. This book would be very good to use in an elementary classroom learning about the solar system. ( )

This book is about a little boy who is sheltered a little too much by his parents. The book takes place mostly in his classroom, and sometimes at his own house or his classmate's house a couple of times. In the class they have to write a letter to the senator explaining what law they would create that would change the world. Oliver's idea is to ban parents from doing their child's homework. He is recognized in front of the whole class and his parent's for having the best idea. I think the book encourages self-growth. Oliver feels his mom is over-bearing and over-protective. He never voices these concerns in fear of hurting her feelings, or simply wanting to avoid an argument. If it were not for his classmate submitting his idea without him knowing, I feel like he would have never spoke up. So I'm thinking the main idea is self growth, and independent thinking. The book shows good things can come from being your own person. I did find the book a little boring due to its simplicity, but I believe it was intended for younger audiences. I don't know that I would have enjoyed this book as a child myself. I like books with a thicker plot, and more complicated conflict. ( )