Ellis Abel and the Red Block
Book 1 in the Ellis Abel Learns series · A Reject Mediocrity Story · Ages 3–8 · A children's book about accountability and responsibility
What happens when a shiny red block goes missing in a messy room?
Ellis Abel is a bright, imaginative boy who loves to play, but struggles with tidying up and managing big feelings. When his favorite block disappears and turns up chewed by his dog Makayla, Ellis Abel feels frustrated, sad, and overwhelmed. With Mama's gentle guidance and a story about ants and a grasshopper, Ellis Abel begins to understand how accountability can help him feel more in control.
Part of a series created especially for neurodivergent children — designed to support emotional regulation, executive functioning, and self-awareness through storytelling and play.
Buy on AmazonMeet the Characters
- Ellis Abel — a bright, imaginative boy learning to own his choices
- Mama — who guides with calm questions instead of blame
- Makayla — the playful husky who mistakes the red block for a chew toy
- Miss Lily — the teacher who celebrates Ellis Abel's honesty
What Kids Learn
- Accountability means owning your part in what happened — "I should have put my things away."
- A tidy room makes it easier to find (and protect) the things you love.
- Honesty feels hard but makes you stronger: "I am responsible for forgetting it."
- The Ant & the Grasshopper: preparing ahead is a form of taking responsibility for your future.
- Mistakes are for learning — take ownership of the good ones and the mistakes.
The Story Within the Story
Mama retells Aesop's classic Ant and the Grasshopper fable in kid-friendly language, connecting the ants' accountability to everyday choices like tidying up and remembering homework.
10 Bonus Activity Sheets Included
My Accountability PledgeThe Red Block Cause & Effect MapAnt or Grasshopper? choice gameAccountability LadderSorting Game — My Things In Their PlaceAccountability Comic StripResponsibility BingoReflection Journal — My Red Block MomentAnt vs. Grasshopper Weekly TrackerMy Red Block Promise Poster
Ready for home, classroom, and counseling use — each sheet includes a parent/teacher tip.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What age is Ellis Abel and the Red Block for?
- It's written for children ages 3–8 — perfect as a read-aloud for preschoolers and an early reader for K–2. The gentle pacing and repetition also make it a strong fit for neurodivergent readers.
- What does this book teach?
- Accountability and responsibility: Ellis Abel learns that owning his choices — tidying up, admitting a forgotten homework assignment — makes him feel stronger, more dependable, and more in control of big feelings.
- Is this book good for neurodivergent children?
- Yes — the Ellis Abel Learns series was created especially for neurodivergent children, supporting emotional regulation, executive functioning, and self-awareness through storytelling and play.
- Does it include activities?
- Yes — 10 bonus activity sheets, including an Accountability Pledge, a Cause & Effect Map, Responsibility Bingo, a Reflection Journal, and a classroom-ready Promise Poster.
- Is the Ant and the Grasshopper story in this book?
- Yes — Mama retells Aesop's fable in a warm, kid-level way that connects the ants' preparation to everyday accountability like tidying up and remembering schoolwork.
Explore Related Topics
More in the Series
Ellis Abel & The Big Test
Lesson: test anxiety
Ellis Abel & The Scary Playground
Lesson: facing fears
Ellis Abel & The Disciple
Lesson: mentorship and character
Ellis Abel and the Two Wolves Within
Lesson: self-talk and choices
Ellis Abel & The Magic Triangle
Lesson: growth mindset