Physical Bullying

July 1, 2013

Gr 5-8-Three timely, useful, and informative titles. A one-page scenario unique to a specific type of bullying serves as an example to enlighten readers on the experience of being a target. This scenario further helps to introduce the focus of the book, followed by an explanation and definition of the type of bullying. Each chapter provides helpful advice and recommendations for ways of handling an attack. Other topics examined include the roles and impact of people present during an act of bullying, where an incident occurs, and parents and siblings as bullies. They all help readers to better understand and grasp the trauma experienced by targets. Other chapters address the fear of future attacks and the impact of these incidents on school attendance. A list of personality characteristics of bullies, physical characteristics and tendencies of those often targeted by bullies, and recommendations for actions to take when witnessing an act of bullying or being a victim help readers become empowered. Material is to the point and easy to understand. A short quiz at the conclusion of each book, "Did You Know?" text boxes with additional facts and statistics, "Think About It!" sections, an appealing layout with color photos and computer-enhanced and altered graphics, accompanied by first-person accounts, create accessible and helpful resources.-Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE

Copyright 2013 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 1, 2013
Grades 5-8 Part of the Take a Stand against Bullying series, this title features useful information about the lasting effects of bullying on both victims and bullies, while offering advice for taking positive steps. The major part of the book is taken up with defining physical bullying (as opposed to verbal, social, and cyberbullying), who the players are (victims, bullies, bystanders, allies), and the typical characteristics of each. The closing chapters cover what can be done to counteract this pervasive societal problem. The format is appealing with short blocks of text balanced with plentiful enhanced photos. Meanwhile, strategically placed quotes from those involved in bullying will draw readers into the full text. Some of the information does seem a bit randomly placed, but this occasionally choppy flow is forgiven thanks to the abundance of solid facts.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)