Early Reader Review: A Trophy for the Jackal by Jule Wellerdiek

Source: From the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

A Trophy for the Jackal by Jule Wellerdiek 

Publisher: NorthSouth Books
Publication Date:  September 8, 2026

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

This humorous tale of competition from creator Jule Wellerdiek will have winners and runners-up alike laughing out loud at Jackal’s many antics.

All Jackal has ever wanted is to win a fancy trophy. But when Goose wins the best hairdo competition, he decides that it’s time he take matters into his own paws. Jackal very quickly discovers that awards aren’t that special when everyone gets one . . .

A laugh-out-loud story about competition and sportsmanship that will speak to every reader’s innermost desire to win

Review: 

This book follows Jackal, who is excited to enter the Best Hairdo Competition. However, when he doesn't win, he becomes very upset. Rather than accepting that we can't always be winners, he creates an award just for himself. Soon, all the other animals do the same, and before long, everyone has a trophy.

I found this book to be funny and entertaining, and the illustrations and animal characters will likely appeal to young readers. The story opens up opportunities for conversations about competition, sportsmanship, ad handling disappointment.

However, I'm not entirely convinced that the overall message comes across clearly. One of my concerns is that it may unintentionally encourage the idea that everyone should receive an award simply for participating, rather than teaching children how to cope with not winning. Jackal also displays bad behavior throughout the story, including being selfish and lying to others, which may require additional discussion with younger readers.

That said, the book does have several strengths. It uses humor effectively, the story is engaging, and it creates a great opportunity for parents, caregivers, and teachers to talk about important life lessons such as resilience, fairness, and how to celebrate others' successes.

Overall, while I enjoyed the funny story and all the emotive animals, I think this book works best as a read-aloud that includes adult guidance and discussion rather than as a standalone lesson about competition and sportsmanship. It is a fun story, but readers may need help unpacking the message behind Jackal's actions.