My son Eli received this book as a gift when he turned 2, probably because his name is the same as one of the characters in the book. At that time, the story was a little confusing to him because he couldn't grasp the concept of someone else being called Eli. He's now 3 1/2. We read it again last night and he really enjoyed the story. I would also read this with older age groups (4-8) to use when discussing social issues like bullying and being picked on.

The reading level for this book is listed as baby-preschool. Although it can hold the attention of a younger listener with the beautiful illustrations, the message of the story is really for older readers/listeners. As kids begin socializing in school and experience being picked on for any reason, this story teaches that it only matters what others say about us if we let it.