[2] The major theme of this book is growing up, and how the children must make adult decisions about good and evil.

[2][4] In Korczak's worlds, a happy ending is not guaranteed, and the child-hero must learn about the limitations of power and the consequences of its abuse.

[4][5] According to Polish sociologist and writer Kinga Dunin, Kaytek, in pedagogical terms, is a superior book to Harry Potter, as within one book, Kaytek experiences much more growth than Harry; furthermore, the world is more realistic, less black and white.

[5] At the same time, Dunin criticises the book for what she considers outdated attitudes to issues of gender and race.

[2] A film adaptation is planned for a 2018 release,[8] following a 14 October 2011 agreement between the Polish Book Institute (copyright holder to all works by Korczak[9]) and Media Brigade of Wrocław.