Books That Heal Kids: bully target

Showing posts with label bully target. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bully target. Show all posts

Book Review: Rain Boy

Author/Illustrator: Dylan Glynn

From the Book Jacket: Rain Boy is not very popular. Wherever he goes he brings wet. But everyone loves Sun Kidd, who brings sunshine. Only Sun Kidd sees what's special about Rain Boy. But when she invites him to her birthday party, disaster strikes, and Rain Boy storms. Will the other kids ever appreciate Rain Boy for being himself? Can Rain boy learn to love his rain? This is a story with all the emotions of the rainbow and about isolation, individuality, and self-love. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: This one is full of messages about including others, standing up for someone being bullied, and self-love. I think it would be a great community builder to help start relationships out with kindness. Everyone brings something a little different to the group. Lets teach kids to appreciate those qualities that are unique and special. Love this one!

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Book Review: The Proudest Blue - A Story of Hijab and Family

Author: Ibtijah Muhammad and S.K. Ali
Illustrator: Hatem Aly

From the Book Jacket: The first day of wearing hijab is important. It means being strong. With her new backpack and light-up shoes, Faizah knows the first day of school is going to be special. It's the start of a brand-new school year and best of all, it's her older sister Asiya's first day of hijab - made of a fabric of beautiful blue, like the ocean waving to the sky. 

But not everyone sees hijab as beautiful, and in the face of hurtful, confusing words, Faizah will find new ways to be strong. 

Olympic medalist Ibtijah Muhammad brings readers an uplifting, universal story of new experiences, the unbreakable bond between siblings, and of being proud of who you are. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Of all the books I read this past year to the students, THIS WAS THE ONE. This was the one that helped kids have even a bigger mind and heart shift when it came to looking outside of themselves and what others are going through. How others are being treated because of their religion, culture, and what they wear. Really love this story and how it came into our lives this year. Forever changed. 

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Book Review: We're All Wonders

Author/Illustrator: RJ Palacio
Interest Level: Ages 4 and Up

From the Book Jacket: Auggie knows he's not an ordinary kid. He does plenty of ordinary things. He feels ordinary. He just doesn't look ordinary. Growing up as an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face isn't easy, but Auggie is a wonder. He and his trusty sidekick, Daisy, play ball, eat ice cream, and use their imaginations to soar through their days together. They know it's not just Auggie who's different. Everyone is different, and everyone is a wonder - if only they could see it. 

Featuring the beloved hero from the worldwide bestselling sensation Wonder, this original adventure written and illustrated by RJ Palacio taps into every child's longing to be seen for who they truly are. 






Why It's On My Bookshelf: I am a huge fan of the book Wonder so I was of course beyond excited to see the picture book version of it. You are going to love it! This will be a great addition to my bullying curriculum. I can easily use this across all grades. I like the message that there is room on Earth for all of us - even with our differences. Kindness and acceptance is what helps us move past exclusion and judgment. So happy about this AMAZING find. Choose Kind. 

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Book Review: My Friend Maggie


Author/Illustrator: Hannah E Harrison
Interest Level: Ages 5 and Up

About This Book: A sweet and heart-tugging story about bullying, friendship, and fitting in. Paula and Maggie have been friends forever. Paula thinks Maggie is the best—until mean girl Veronica says otherwise. Suddenly, Paula starts to notice that Maggie is big and clumsy, and her clothes are sort of snuggish. Rather than sticking up for Maggie, Paula ignores her old friend and plays with Veronica instead. Luckily, when Veronica turns on Paula, Maggie’s true colors shine through. 



Why It's On My Bookshelf: This is a powerful story about exclusion and how harmful it can feel. As a school counselor I have witnessed these types of power plays among students. It is very hurtful when a student tells another student not to play with a certain person. Veronica puts down Maggie by body shaming and saying that she is too big. It's a putdown I have heard other students use. I have not used a story like this before so it was a good discussion when we read it. This book fits perfectly into my curriculum around including others and accepting differences. I also like how the victim in the story ends up being the upstander. 

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Book Review: Red

Author/Illustrator: Jan De Kinder
Interest Level: Ages 4 and Up

About This Book: In this poignant story, a girl finds it funny when her classmate starts blushing on the school playground. Her friends laugh along with her, but one student takes the teasing too far. Torn between her sympathy for her classmate and her fear of the bully, the girl must make a difficult choice. This heartfelt book will inspire readers to find the courage to take a stance against bullying and show compassion towards others. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I'm starting to focus even more on the bystanders as part of our bully prevention at my school. They are a group that needs empowerment and given the permission to do something when they witness the mistreatment of others. It's a story with really impactful illustrations and words. I was so excited to see this new title. Definitely a difference maker!





A Link to This Book and Others You Might Find Helpful:  
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Book Review: Leave Me Alone

Author: Kes Gray
Illustrator: Lee Wildish
Interest Level: K -3

A Note From the Publisher: A little boy is feeling sad because every day he has to face a bully. But this story’s little boy also has friends. A frog, a cat, a rabbit, a cow, and other animal friends insist on helping him, even after he tells them: “There’s nothing you can do for me/ There’s nothing you can say.” Fortunately, he is mistaken, because the next time the bully approaches, they all join with him and shout, “LEAVE HIM ALONE!” And it works! The bully turns around and goes away. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Originally I saw this book posted on Pinterest and thought how did I miss this book? This might seem like a really quick read but there is a lot of power behind the story. It empowers the victim and the bystanders when a mean situation is going down. I think a lot of kids will relate to the feeling of being powerless. Hate having to write that but it's true. There are some kids in my school who just "put up with it." But I have a whole lot of kids who are witnessing it and can PROTECT that child. In the story, there are animals who represent the bystanders. I'm thinking I'll have fun with this book and bring in LOTS of stuffed animals for kids to use in role plays.


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Book Review: Each Kindness

Author: Jacqueline Woodson
Illustrator: E.B. Lewis
Interest Level: Grades 1-5

From the Book Jacket: Chloe doesn't really know why she turns away from the new girl, Maya, when Maya tries to befriend her. And every time Maya asks if she can play with Chloe and the other girls, the answer is always no. So Maya ends up playing alone. And then one day she's gone. 

When Chloe's teacher gives a lesson about how even small acts of kindness can change the world, Chloe is stung by the opportunity that's been lost. How much better could it have been if she'd just shown Maya a little kindness and opened her heart to friendship?

Why It's On My Bookshelf: This is going to be one of the most important books I read to students this year. It will definitely be one of my favorites. It came in the mail this morning and I just had to blog about it today because it is a MUST for your bookshelf.

This is a powerful story PACKED FULL of life lessons. A new student Maya is treated horribly by her classmates. She tries making friends with the other students but is rejected and becomes a target because of her economic status. Students will feel sadness as you read this story - because they will be filled with an overwhelming empathy for Maya. In the end, we never know the full damage that may have been caused to Maya because she moves. We can surely guess though. However, it's Chloe who teaches us the lesson. She had shunned Maya but is filled with guilt, remorse, and emotional pain as she becomes aware of her own hurtful behavior. She is never able to make amends. I cannot wait for the discussion this will create. If we can teach our children to live their lives in complete kindness - hopefully they will not have to learn this lesson the hard way.

What an AMAZING teaching tool!

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Book Review: Freda Stops a Bully


Author/Illustrator: Stuart J Murphy
Book Website: I See I Learn
Interest Level: K-2

From the Book Jacket: Freda loves her new pink shoes. But when she wears them, a boy at school teases her. What can Freda do to make the bully stop?

Why It's On My Bookshelf: We are really trying to steer kids away from running straight to an adult when they are dealing with a put down. Instead we want them to first try and handle it themselves if it falls under the category of small stuff. We do a lot of teaching about the difference between a small and big problem. Freda Stops a Bully offers some great strategies for kids to shutdown the beginnings of a bully problem on their own. This book is DEFINITELY going to be a great tool to empower our kindergarten through second grade students. Check out the problem solving steps below. 


  



Check out the rest of the I See I Learn series HERE

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Book Review: The Weird Series

Weird! Dare! Tough!
by Erin Frankel, illustrated by Paula Heaphy
Book Website: www.theweirdseries.com
Publisher: Free Spirit
Interest Level: K and Up

True-to-life stories of bullying told from all perspectives: the role of the target, the bystander, and the person doing the bullying.

These three books tell the story of an ongoing case of bullying from three third graders’ perspectives. Luisa describes being targeted by bullying in Weird! Jayla shares her experience as a bystander to bullying in Dare! And in Tough!, Sam speaks from the point of view of someone initiating bullying. Kids will easily relate to Luisa, Jayla, and Sam, as each girl has her own unique experience, eventually learning how to face her challenges with the help of friends, peers, and caring adults. The books may be read separately or as a set; readers will enjoy tracking details that carry over from one book to another. Each book concludes with "activity club" pages for kids, as well as information to help parents, teachers, counselors, and other adults reinforce the books' messages and foster dialogue with children.

Weird! (Book 1)
Luisa is repeatedly teased and called "weird" by her classmate Sam, even though she is simply being herself—laughing with her friends, answering questions in class, greeting her father in Spanish, and wearing her favorite polka-dot boots. Luisa initially reacts to the bullying by withdrawing and hiding her colorful nature. But with the support of her teachers, parents, classmates, and one special friend named Jayla, she is able to reclaim her color and resist Sam’s put-downs.

Dare! (Book 2)
Jayla feels threatened by her classmate Sam, who has bullied her in the past for her "nerdy" love of astronomy and stars. Sam is now bullying Jayla’s friend Luisa, and she enlists Jayla to participate. Jalya reluctantly joins in but soon realizes it is wrong. With the help of caring adults and friends, Jayla comes to sympathize with Luisa and finds the courage to dare to stand up to Sam and put an end to the bullying.


 Tough! (Book 3)
Sam is concerned about keeping things orderly and "cool" at school. She thinks people need to have a tough skin in order to fit in and withstand others’ meanness and lack of cooperation. Sam teases her free-spirited classmate Luisa and enlists a friend, Jayla, to help. But when Sam is confronted by a concerned teacher about her bullying, and Jayla turns on Sam and befriends Luisa, Sam begins to show some heart and rethink her treatment of others.

Why They Are On My Bookshelf: These books are already so dear to my heart. Author Erin Frankel and illustrator Paula Heaphy have created a masterpiece through the viewpoints of the victim, bystander, and bully. I had the opportunity to read this unique series to students before the school year wrapped up. They were all captivated by the stories of three girls involved in bullying. It was obvious through our discussion their hearts and minds were very moved. Everyone has had a role or involvement in bullying and kids could see themselves in the books.

As a school counselor, I want to reach students at a deeper level when it comes to the serious issue of school bullying. This perfectly crafted story is the vehicle to do just that. I can't tell you how impressed I am with this series. The first day I read them, I knew I had something special in my hands. Students are given valuable insight into how to get out of a bullying situation and make positive changes through confidence, courage, and kindness. I cannot wait to reread these in the fall. They are truly awesome and so impactful!

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Chrissa Stands Strong Movie

About the Movie
Chrissa Maxwell and her family have just moved to snowy Minnesota, and Chrissa has to start at a new school mid-year. Will she fit in? Can she find new friends?

On her very first day, Chrissa is seated with three girls who greet her with teasing and tricks. The "Mean Bees" really know how to sting—they bully Chrissa and the other kids in class, on the bus, online, and even at swim club. Chrissa can’t seem to make any new friends—not even with the girl who seems to need a friend the most. When the biggest bully becomes Chrissa’s swimming rival, the taunting finally goes too far.

Can Chrissa find a way to stand strong and stop the bullying?

Movie Trailer


I absolutely love this movie and have been showing it the past couple of years to students. If you are a parent, teacher, or counselor I really encourage you to watch this movie with your kids. There are so many great lessons in it about bullying.

There are also great curriculum materials that go with the movie for parents and teachers to use as a guide. Oh, and it's FREE. Double score on that one!

PS. This is not a movie for JUST girls. The boys in my school loved this movie just as much and were not scared away because it is from American Girl. They don't even notice that. In fact, I had a few boys come up to me in the hallway and excitedly ask, "When are we going to finish the Chrissa movie?"


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Book Review: You're Mean, Lily Jean!


Author: Frieda Wishinsky
Illustrator: Kady MacDonald Denton
Publisher: Albert Whitman
Interest Level: Ages 4-8

From the Book Jacket: When Lily Jean moves in next door, sisters Carly and Sandy are happy to have a new friend join their game. But Lily Jean changes everything. She decides they'll play house and orders Carly to be the baby. When they play king and queen, King Lily Jean tells Carly to be the royal dog! Tired of being bossed around, Carly comes up with a way to teach Lily Jean a lesson. With Sandy's help, can she turn a bully into a friend?

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Well, my 2011 favorites list just grew again! I am very passionate about the name of my blog because of books just like this one. I spend hours hunting for the ones with teachable moments that help children learn important social skills. Every K-3 class I read this to benefited in their friendships, sibling relationships, and helped curb bullying behavior.

There is a whole lot of bossing around going on in the story. Lily Jean is on a power trip and her behavior got a ton of disapproval from students. Carly is picked on because she is the little sister and Lily Jean wants to have Sandy all to herself. But what blessed my heart was how sweet and caring big sister Sandy is to Carly. She sticks up for her. It was a great stopping point to talk about how we need to look out for our siblings and make sure they are being treated with kindness. Carly sticks up for herself too and lets Lily Jean know she can hang with her and Sandy if she is nice. That's their friendship rule for Lily Jean. Stop being bossy and start being nice or go play alone. Lots of kids need to hear this truth. It's okay to say NO to bad behavior. Looking forward to reading this one to my own kiddo.  

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Book Review: Bird Child


Author: Nan Forler
Illustrator: Francois Thisdale
Author/Book Website: www.nanforler.com
Interest Level: Ages 6-9

From the Book Jacket: The boy lifted a mitten-load of snow and smushed it into Lainey's face, wiping away what was left of the smile she'd had on her first day of school. Eliza said nothing. She stood like a statue with her boots sinking deeper and deeper into the snow, her voice as dry as a mouthful of wool, and watched it happen.

Eliza desperately wants to help the new girl, Lainey, when a group of children pick on her in the schoolyard. But like so many people who witness bullying, Eliza feels afraid and powerless to help. As the sun disappears from Lainey's beautiful paintings and the little girl becomes more and more alone, Eliza does find a way to pass along the gifts her own mother has given her - "wings to fly" and the ability to see the wonderful possibilities that lie before her. Then in an act of courage, Eliza spreads those wings and stands up to the bullies. One by one, the other children add their voices, and soon the bullies have skulked away. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Just when I had given up my search for GOOD (there's only a few out there, friends) books tackling the issue of bystanders - a beautiful story landed in my lap. I'm predicting you will be hearing more and more about Bird Child as it's popularity will certainly rise among school counselors, teachers, and parents. I have immediately built it into my curriculum. There are kids just like Eliza at my school who needed the boost from Nan Forler's book giving them permission to say no to unkind behavior.

Eliza's mom wisely says, "Look down and see what is. Now look up and see what can be." I took the time to make sure the kids understood those words - You have the power to change a situation, a life, a bully problem! This is the first year I've spent more time focusing on the bystanders at my school. It's been time well spent. I'm seeing more empathy, invites to play, faster action to bully behavior, and less exclusion. Don't pass this one up. We are all facing the same issues at our schools, I can see this book appreciated by students everywhere.

A Link to This Book and Others You Might Find Helpful:
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Book Review: The Hundred Dresses

Author: Eleanor Estes
Illustrator: Louis Slovodkin
Interest Level: Ages 9-12

From The Book Jacket: Wanda wears the same faded blue dress to school every day - yet she says she has one hundred beautiful dresses at home, "all lined up." The other girls don't believe it, and when Peggy starts a daily game of teasing Wanda about the hundred dresses, everyone joins in. Maddie, Peggy's best friend goes along with the game, but she secretly wonders whether she can find the courage to speak up in Wanda's defense.

It's not until Wanda fails to come to school one day that her classmates learn the truth about the hundred dresses - and Maddie and Peggy learn the meaning of kindness and generosity of spirit.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: This is a solid resource I use with my bullying curriculum for grades 3-5. Some children are relentlessly picked on. I am usually part of the healing process when it comes time for apologies and making amends in these situations. But what if you don't get the chance to say you're sorry? The Hundred Dresses is a stand out read in my opinion because of the remorse factor in one of the characters. She feels awful about her behavior. I live for the discussion this draws out of students. There's a bit of a mean girls theme going on in the story. It is so sad to see a group mess with someone's feelings. Often times, those participating don't want to be part of the teasing and deep down wish they could put a stop to it. The Hundred Dresses speaks directly to those students. There is an energy in the room when we finish reading. It's a story that increases kindness, empathy, and making amends with those we have injured. I also see groups forming in 4-5 grades so this helps me break down those "clique" barriers. PS. This is a true story!

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Book Review: Crow Boy

Author: Taro Yashima
Interest Level: Ages 4-9

About This Book: Chibi has been an outcast since that frightening first day of school when he hid under the schoolhouse. Afraid of the teacher and unable to make any friends, Chibi passes his free time alone - alone at study time, alone at playtime, always a "forlorn little tag-along." But when Mr. Isobe arrives, the teacher sees things in Chibi that no one else has ever noticed. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Holy cow I love this book! And it completely speaks to kids...about a whole lotta issues. I'll start off with bullying. Chibi is picked on and made fun of because the kids think he is different. He's tiny, fearful, shy, poor, a loner, and lives in the country. It's a teachable moment about negative reactions to what we perceive as different. These are my favorite conversations to have with students because they are such passionate advocates for social justice. There are certain books in my library that get them "worked up" about this issue and Crow Boy is one of them. Any student who raises their hand during this part of discussion - gets called on. It's important that they get to SPEAK about how Chibi is slighted for no good reason. I've also got a good crop of shy students in my school. I know they are tuning in while I'm reading. It's an opportunity to talk about being sensitive and accepting of others. There is a real myth about shy kids. Leadership comes in all forms....sometimes quiet. The issue of friendship is huge in Crow Boy. And it's huge because I talk about it A LOT. Chibi's peers are so caught up in bully behavior that they didn't see his beauty. His inner beauty....he's actually talented and gifted (some might call that individuality) in many different areas. How can the door of friendship be opened when we are so quick to form opinions of one another? And not nice opinions. There is a good ending and the kids in the story experience remorse.  

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Book Review: Stand Tall Molly Lou Melon

Author: Patty Lovell
Illustrator: David Catrow
Interest Level: Ages 4-8

About This Book: Author Patty Lovell has created the perfect "imperfect" character in little girl Molly Lou Melon. She's shorter than short, with buck teeth, a voice that sounds like a bullfrog being squeezed by a boa constrictor, and quite the clutz. But none of that gets her down because grandma keeps telling her, "Believe in yourself and the world will believe in you too." And little miss Molly Lou Melon lives by those words and happily sees her "flaws" as gifts. But things change when she starts a new school. She becomes the bully target of Ronald Durkin who tries to put her down every chance he gets. But grandma's words of self-esteem live strong in Molly Lou Melon. Ronald eventually finds out, this little tiny gal does not waver. Maybe he is the one with the "flaws"? Stand Tall Molly Lou Melon is a shining example of "Be Yourself." The illustrations are comedic, colorful, and very entertaining.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: A+  Yep, you heard me. This book gets an A+ from the students and me. Molly Lou Melon is a "hot mess." I say that with such love and adoration. There are certain books I depend upon to help me teach the concept of self-esteem. This one is a winner. I see kids being bullied, put-down, and made fun of (I know, sad) at school. Most of them are not "built" to take this kind of cruelty. Are any of us really? We teach kids how to say "NO" to bullying, but are we teaching them how to keep their confidence and self-esteem intact? There is a silent emotional aftermath bullying can cause. Kids can walk away emotionally scarred. My biggest fear is when children start to believe the put-downs being said. Molly Lou Melon teaches kids to not let it bring you down but to "Stand Tall." This is a fabulous read and Molly's letter to grandma on the last page is the perfect ending. If you are looking for a great story to teach self-esteem and confidence, look no further. It is difficult to teach those concepts at an early age - this will surely help you!

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Book Review: Thank You, Mr Falker

Author: Patricia Polacco
Interest Level: K-4

About This Book: Once more Polacco shares a personal story with engaging results. This moving saga of her struggle with a learning disability makes an inspiring picture book. Young Tricia wants desperately to read but when she starts school she finds that the words "wiggle" on the page. Teased by her classmates, she retreats into dreams and drawings. It's not until the family moves to California and Tricia has managed to reach the fifth grade that a new teacher finally recognizes her pain and distress. What's more, he does something about it. Without belaboring the point, the author clearly shows the ways that children internalize critical comments made by others and suffer for their differences. This touching story is accompanied by illustrations in Polacco's signature style. Youngsters, as well as adults, may find themselves choked up at the emotions so eloquently described in words and pictures. Yet, like the tears young Tricia cries at the end of the book, these are ultimately tears of joy. Thank you, indeed, Mr. Felker (the real name of the teacher involved) for making it all possible. Readers will be grateful for the chance to recognize, appreciate, and share in Polacco's talent and creativity. -School Library Journal

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Usually, in this part of the review I reflect upon how the book has positively impacted students. I'd like to share something more personal about this story....

When I became an elementary school counselor, I was sort of lost in the world of bibliotherapy. I picked a lot of over the top generic books about feelings and bullying that were total flops with students. Maybe bibliotherapy was a myth because the books (I was choosing) were total snores. It got to the point where I was actually dreading reading to classes. And they weren't exactly cheering when I came into the room holding a book.

Thank You, Mr. Falker changed all of that for me and the kids. I truly consider it the first REAL bibliotherapy story I read to students. I watched how the story touched the students as we journeyed through the pages. First of all, they were quietly engaged from start to finish. Second, hands kept shooting up in the air to comment on certain elements of the story. Oh, and they clapped at the end! (it's a beautiful personal story by author Patricia Polacco) I'd been so used to the lack of interest when reading that I was blown away by the sheer excitement and rapid discussion that followed. Tricia's struggle with a learning disability, moving to a new school, being bullied and picked on was ACTUALLY impacting the class. There was a new energy in the room I'd never felt before. It was the story!! I could see it in students' faces. Hearts were opening...kids were relating to the main character Tricia. It was my first bibliotherapy experience and I began to recognize the healing power of books. I vowed right then and there - no more boring uninspiring stories!

So here is some advice I learned the hard way: When choosing new literature have an intent. What do kids' need? Counselors are usually the "eyes and the ears" of the school. Make it a point to know what challenges children are facing and mold your picks around those issues. Always check in with teachers and ask what they are seeing and hearing in the classroom, cafeteria, and playground. I've changed many of my lessons at the last minute after taking the temperature of a class. I might think we need to work on honesty but maybe friendship is the real issue. Teachers are always in the know. If it's not impactful and helpful to children then put it back on the shelf. And sometimes that's hard because there are a lot of good books out there I think kids want to hear - but they don't!  And trust me, you'll know when it's a sleeper. Finally, are you passionate about what you're reading? I really get into the voice of the characters and the emotion of the story as I read. At the end of Thank You, Mr. Falker, I had to catch myself a little because I was a little teary on the last page (read it - you'll see why). I'm not saying become a dramatic actor but when I believe in a story - it shines through. 

Now when I walk into classrooms, students are desperately trying to see what book I'm holding and are eager to open their hearts and minds. So thank you, Mr. Falker for not just helping Tricia, but helping me discover the beauty of bibliotherapy and the difference it can make in a boy or girl's life.

A Link to This Book:
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Book Review: Blue Cheese Breath and Stinky Feet - How to Deal With Bullies

Author: Catherine DePino
Illustrated by Bonnie Matthews and
Charles Beyl
Interest Level: Ages 6-11ish

From the Book Jacket: Gus nudged his friend. "Want to meet someone with blue cheese breath and stinky feet? Hey, Blue Cheese Breath, give me your homework so I can copy it." I looked into Gus's mean green eyes...

Steve has to do something about Gus. But what? He doesn't know how to make Gus leave him alone. He's afraid to ask for help. And he's afraid things will get worse if he tells. When his parents find out anyway, Steve is surprised to feel relieved. And when they help him come up with a plan to send Gus on his way, he knows he can do it. The next time Gus tries to bully "Blue Cheese Breath and Stinky Feet," he is in for a big surprise!

Why I Wrote This Book: From the Author: I wanted kids to know that they could do something about bullying and that they are not powerless and alone. The title shows how kids can make up silly, senseless names to hurt other kids. The plan to help kids deal with bullies is something every child can try. It’s important to remember that every bullying episode needs an individual plan geared to that event. This plan is a starting point that every child can use. Check out all of Catherine's books at her website

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Okay, DO NOT be thrown off by the title of this book. And yes, when I read the name to the students they also give me an incredulous look. I actually like that they are confused by the title. Because what starts as an incredulous look quickly turns into looks of rapt attention. As we dive into the story, the students are right with me. The main character, Steve, is a representation of what I see a lot of children doing - hiding that they are being harassed or bullied. Steve hides this pain from his parents. "What's wrong? Mom asked. Nothing, I said." Eventually a teacher becomes aware of the bullying and steps in by alerting Steve's parents. They empower him with 'The Plan.' They brainstorm, role play, and come up with a list of strategies that Steve can do to deal with the bully. My favorite part is when Steve's dad talks about 'Power Words'. Good stuff. Just like Steve, I see a lot of kids getting targeted and harassed. If you are a parent, teacher or counselor use Blue Cheese Breath and Stinky Feet as a tool to give kids the life skills needed to deal with bullying. You'll appreciate having this book on your shelf.


A Link To This Book And Others You Might Find Helpful:
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