Bullying

A sensitive, empowering and sophisticated anti-bullying pack addressing bullying in all its forms. Includes: the impact of emotional bullying; anti-bullying strategies; exclusion amongst friendship groups; the perspectives of both bullies and the bullied. 6 Books Members Price £43.00 **Suitable substitutions will be made if any title becomes unavailable**

A sensitive, empowering and sophisticated anti-bullying pack addressing bullying in all its forms. Includes: the impact of emotional bullying; anti-bullying strategies; exclusion amongst friendship groups; the perspectives of both bullies and the bullied. 5 Books Members Price £33.00 **Suitable substitutions will be made if any title becomes unavailable**

A sensitive, empowering and sophisticated anti-bullying pack addressing bullying in all its forms. Includes: the impact of emotional bullying; anti-bullying strategies; exclusion amongst friendship groups; the perspectives of both bullies and the bullied. 11 Books Members Price £75.00 **Suitable substitutions will be made if any title becomes unavailable**

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2018 A deft urban thriller set on a Nottingham estate and starring Callum, an aspiring scriptwriter from a single parent (Dad) family, who doubts that a boy from his background ever gets a break. When a series of local thefts occur at the same time that Callum's Dad 'moves in' his Polish girlfriend and her son, Callum turns investigator.... but his own prejudices soon start to falter and, just as quickly, old kinships are broken and new friendships formed. A gripping and soulful story of self-discovery which packs in plenty of thoughtful content and has more than a touch of Ken Loach's Kes (1969) about it. Beautifully drawn, credible, characters include Sergei, a Polish boy who is wonderfully self-empowered and challenges anti-immigrant prejudice head-on; Amelia, a politically aware Black girl, who lives an 'unconventional' life on a narrow boat; self-hating Linford, a victim of domestic violence and a perpetrator of violence himself ...until he is a witness to injustice writ large. These young voices really ring true. Age 10-15, Paperback 318pp

Stonewall Honor Book Nate Foster is a child who dreams of stardom on a New York stage. When he hears that ET-The Musical is casting, he can't resist breaking free of his small town and making it alone to the big city...and to the auditions! A delightful journey of self-discovery ensues, one ultimately full of optimism: "A kid who might have found someplace where he doesn't have to change anything about himself, to fit in. A better Nate than ever". Fantastic characters, including a protagonist full of soul and heart, a cheerleading best friend who blazes with wit and sassiness (Libby) and a sardonic, seen-it-all, downbeat Auntie Heidi. Bouncing with humour, this is also a wonderful exploration of homophobic bullying and what it means to not fit in. Most of all it provides a nuanced, subtle and spot-on representation of a young person who is not quite ready to but is also on the brink of discovering their sexuality...whatever that might be. In the words of one of our reviewers, 'My 11 year old self would have loved this book. There is a real joy here as a boy learns to accept his own identity...will have a special appeal to Glee fans of all genders; its breathless pace, humour and suspense will appeal to many more' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant). Age 11+, Paperback 274pp Special Price expires September 18th 2015 £4 (usually £6.99)

Superb writing and a sure hit by the Children's Laureate. An extraordinary, compelling and imaginative narrative about bullying, friendship and loss. Age 8-14, Paperback 157pp

"I'm going to tell you what you need to know about bullying". A unique take, from a bully's point of view, offering facts, tips and fantastically empowering advice. Age 8-11, American Import Paperback 43pp

A wonderfully thoughtful story about bullying, friendship and the freedom of forgiveness, based on a real episode from Archbishop Tutu's childhood. Set in South Africa. Dreamy illustrations. Age 6-9, Paperback 29pp Themes: Black History / Bullying

New girl, Maya, looks different in her ragged hand-me-downs and she's always left playing on her own. A wise, thoughtful, everyday story about exclusion & kindness. An award-winning team and one of the most moving picture books we have seen. Age 5-8, American Import Hardback 30pp

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2023 "It was the same old story- make up hateful things about the people you don't like so you can attack their identities and create division and fear." After a terrorist attack at a K-pop concert in the Midlands, local racial tensions simmer and, ultimately, spill over. Aaliyah feels as if a spotlight is hovering over her. Determined to face down the bullies and counter the ugly stereotypes circulating about Muslims, she proudly puts on her hijab and speaks up. When her school then bans religious symbols, she feels painfully exposed. But she soon discovers she is not alone. Many of her friends are also being policed in their expression of religious and cultural identities, from being asked to remove rainbow badges to being sent home because of wearing braids. And this becomes a unifying force, galvanising them to organise, speak out, stand up and...sit down... in protest. The 2nd novel from the winner of the Little Rebels Award for Radical Children's Fiction 2021 (with Boy, Everywhere). Could it be that wining the edgiest children's book award in town prompted Az Dassu to foreground political activism in her second novel? We like to think so! The power of young people's voices in the novel is striking. Not only does Dassu challenge racist and religious stereotypes, just as important to her is countering stereotypes of who makes up the far right. A nuanced work in empathy. Some great backnotes include a glossary of Sikh and Muslim terms, a section on allyship, a list of central themes and an author's note on the research carried out. Age 9-14, Paperback 370pp

Carly is being isolated by the girls who were once her friends. But with the help of a stray puppy, art classes and a new friend she slowly rediscovers her fizz. Age 7-11, Paperback 53pp

"School can be touch. Life can be tough...Glitter Boy is about allowing yourself to shine and sparkle and never giving up, even when the darkness seems to be drawing around you" (Author Ian Eagleton). Highly readable coming-of-age middle grade fiction starring 11-year-old James, creator of most extravagant dance routines, lifetime member of the Mariah Carey fan club and a staunch believer in staying fabulous. But lately, fabulousness is feeling hard to sustain with an absent mum, a taciturn dad, a changing friendship group, a beloved Nan who is getting frailer by the day and... the daily taunts of classmate Paul. And why does his tummy start to fizz when his teacher mentions his husband-to-be and...there it goes again!...when he's around new friend, Joel. An empathetic story about finding the strength to stay true to yourself in the midst of Big Life Changes and in the face of bullies. The novel's (part-autobiographical) study in homophobic bullying, internalised homophobia and the ways in which boys and men 'police' each other's gender expressions and sexuality is brilliantly conveyed. There are some nice references to queer history along the way, from the extraordinary courage of Martha P. Johnson to the shameful legacy of Section 28! The debut novel by former teacher and winner of the inaugural Polari Prize's Children's Award with picture book, Nen and the Lonely Fisherman (also available from us). 'This is a book to read more than once. Although the surface story is about bullying, it is also more nuanced. The bullying touches the parts of James that he is exploring but of which he is also most fearful' (Sylvia, former Children's Social Work Director, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 9-13, Paperback 356pp, Paperback

Winner of the 2019 Stonewall Book and the 2019 Lambda Literary Awards. "My mom never told me what it means to be a Hurricane Child. But I heard what it means when the old women from down the road come by... That it's a curse, being born during a hurricane. I won't have an inch of luck for the rest of my days, and sadness will follow me wherever I go. Well I step on that curse and spit on it too. I don't need the world's luck to live." Born during a storm, followed by a spirit, feeling abandoned at every turn, 12-year-old Caroline thinks that her world can be fixed if she can just find her mum. And with the arrival of new girl, Kalinda, she has a partner to join her on her quest. But who is the woman in black? And why does she now want, more than anything, to just hold Kalinda's hand? An exquisite coming of age novella set in St Thomas (one of the US Virgin Islands). We applaud and weep for Caroline as she quivers on the brink of discovering her sexuality, as she comes up against school bullying over her skin colour (darker than her peers) and the homophobic prejudice perpetuated by the (largely Catholic) wider community, as she learns to let go of a mother who needed to cast herself off and as she deals with her feelings for Kalinda. Gorgeous, 'literary' middle grade, shot through with magical realism. 'Fabulously written tale that evokes the islands and culture. Great storytelling of love, loss, belonging and trauma. Covers so many emotions while stirring emotions and questions' (Meryl, Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). [Author identifies as Black, queer and trans]. Age 9-12, Paperback 210pp

"We called ourselves the Bad Lads, but it was just a joke". The Bad Lads: pesky little mischief makers or bullies in the making? With the arrival of German refugee, Klaus, in post-war Newcastle, some of the lads start to question their gang leader's ideas of entertainment- especially when it comes to tormenting the local 'conchie'. 'Interesting interweaving of conscientious objection, bullying and gang mentality' (Cariad, Theatre Lecturer, LL reviewer). Reading Age 7 Interest 9-14, Paperback 55pp

2021 Blue Peter Book Awards Shortlist; 2020 Blackwells Children's Books of the Year; 2021 Brandford Boase Award Longlist; 2021 Carnegie Nominee "My Grandpa always said, people like me in the past might not have been the most sociable. Or the chattiest. But while everyone else was around the fireplace gossiping, we were out finding electricity. That's what my autism is. It's a kind of spark." Barely in need of an introduction after taking multiple social media platforms by storm! A smart debut (by a neurodivergent author), A Kind of Spark tells the story of Addie, the unique world she shares with sister Keedie and the bold and affirmative place she take up in the neurotypical wider world, making her mark as she takes on the bullies in her midst (her peers, but also her teacher) and restores the lost voices of the women tortured and killed during the Scottish witch trials. A brilliant challenge to assumptions about autism and a joyful coming-of-age narrative which delivers a young activist for our times. Age 9-13, Paperback 186pp

How wonderful to have an in-depth, pre-teen read which takes on, eloquently and honestly, young people's own struggles with depression and suicide. Fantastic storytelling weaves together the experiences of four young teens who have all been excluded in different ways and made to feel 'different': Francis, a fashion-loving boy; Andi, a girl who refuses conventional ideas about 'femininity'; Robert, an obese computer geek and, of course, Jessica, the ghost of a suicide victim determined to bring joy back into the lives of her new friends. Fantastic characterisations, warm hearted and ultimately hopeful. A wonderful tribute to friendship. 'Jessica's Ghost is both a hymn to the joys of "being different" and an earnest exploration of the serious traumas suffered by teenagers who are lucky enough, and unlucky enough, to be unconventional' (Josh Lacey, The Guardian, May 2015). Age 9-12, Paperback 247pp Themes: Mental Health, Bullying, Gender Equality

"I've seen gay people before. Course I have. Loads of times. On TV. On the internet...But never in my garden, chatting to my mum...Not where they could see me, notice something I say or do or just the way I am, and know in an instant what I've told no one else..." The third novel by an author who has, we believe, really captured the middle grade space with stories which centre LGBTQ+ lives. Following on from Nothing Ever Happens Here, Hagger-Holt's second novel, Proud of Me, won the Little Rebels Award in 2022. And, with this latest offering, she simply continues to go from strength to strength. The middle grade readership denotes precisely the age where many children and young people begin to explore romantic feelings, first crushes, confusing accelerating heart beats and tummy fizzes (!) So this is also precisely when we need to give young readers confident, healthy and happy messages about their gender expressions, their sexual orientation or just simply reassure them that those bewildering fizzes are, in fact, entirely normal. Hagger-Holt does all of this and with real empathy and nuance. Just Like Everyone Else is the story of 13-year-old Aidan, expert fell runner, big brother in Team Taylor, top buddy to Jack and possibly, perhaps, surely not, ...gay? Aidan's feelings about his nascent sexuality are spot on and his response will be, sadly, relatable to many young people. Fearful of his own surfacing feelings, he doesn't dare intervene in the homophobic tauntings of Jack. When his mum offers to act as surrogate to gay couple, Justin and Atif, he is overcome by embarrassment and a dread of exposure. When his face flushes at the sight of Will, he turns away. His proximity to anything or anyone 'gay', makes him anxious and close to phobic, as if a spotlight is heading right for him. And so, he works hard, very hard, at coasting, at never standing out, at passing as 'just like everyone else'. Sarah Hagger-Holt really knows her subject. This is a world where rainbow laces are worn, Queer Eye is mainstream viewing and surrogacy for same-sex couples is possible. None of which, however, is to say that young people are free to discover themselves with ease. Jack's small acts of gender non-conformity make him a target for both pupils and teachers; Aidan's little sister, Bells, is quick to challenge everyday, 'casual' sexism; queer parenting still attracts a disapproving shake of the head; a young Muslim man thinks that only white people can be gay (after all, those are the only gay people mainstream media showed him). It's also a lovely touch that Aidan assumes he can't be gay because he doesn't enjoy the things poplar culture determines make up queer culture. As he asks Atif, "I'm into sport. Like, can you be gay and be into sport?" All of this wonderful, rich material contained within the 'classic' middle grade fiction fare of family, friendships, transitions and coming-of-age. Great discussion questions at the end too! (This reviewer's fave secondary character: marathon-runner-in-training and young person's bestest confidant, Auntie Jo). Age 8-12, Paperback 303pp

In this affirming story, Thuy finds the might she needs to rise above her peers' prejudices by stomping out a snowy path, her two Mums foot-printing close beside her. An affirming tale of bullying overcome. 'I love this book, the writing is very poetic and the story is charming with an independent heroine...the continuing ideas of footsteps is one that small children can relate to' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, LL reviewer). (Asian-American and Vietnamese-Polish author and illustrator). Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp

A much needed look at emotional bullying between girls and a 'very true depiction of the affect it has on a girl when a "friend" changes' (School Librarian, Letterbox reviewer). A huge success in the US, this is a must for the UK classroom. Age 6-10, American Import Paperback 29pp Themes: Bullying

"We are all born with beautiful skin. We are not born racist. Some people feel uncomfortable talking about race, but we do not need to be". Subtitled, "Let's talk about race, racism and empowerment", this book ranks very highly for us as a clear, accessible and eminently child-friendly introduction to discussions about racism. Refreshingly direct, empowering- and positive, it comes with a helpful glossary (for e.g., "Anti-Blackness" & "culture"), questions/prompts and some superb tips for adults about how to use the book with children. Written by an international, award-winning, early education expert. Praised highly by our reviewers: 'Really useful non-fiction for early years to support teaching of anti-racism. Good explanations and can help to build dialogue, especially for less experienced teachers' (Edyta, Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library Reviewer). 'Inclusive and colourful book about a very serious, complex behaviour that impacts on all people...Every organisation which works with children should have one. Highly recommended' (Ann Marie, EY Safeguarding Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-8, Hardback 29pp

YA BOOK AWARD WINNER 2017 Winner of the 2017 Waterstones Children's Book Prize (for Older Fiction) "I should have rubbed her fingers to keep the last warmth. I should have stroked the hair back over her shoulder. Life can't jump away from someone that quick, can it? Not so you can't reach it." The girl of his every dream, a hot summer's day, a busy fairground- for a short while, the world seems perfect to Marlon. And then, just as quickly, the skies turn cold, everything turns hazy and what seemed to be truths become suddenly uncertain. A teen thriller with a perfect pace- spilling and looping and relentlessly picking up speed into a quite dizzying ending. A fantastic ensemble of voices from quick-thinking Tish to the menacing D-Ice to the soulful, warm-hearted and uncertain Marlon. The characters are bold, warm blooded and walk right in to your living room. The East End of London is thoroughly authentic, down to Westfield Shopping Centre (right across the road from us) which hosts one of the many gripping chase sequences. Pitched superbly and respectfully to its teenage audience without a hint of self-consciousness or awkwardness. There is some wonderfully thoughtful insights into peer pressure, gang culture and family loyalty. Perhaps, most of all, the novel explores whether it is possible to sustain your moral core in the midst of chaos brewed by violence and revenge. This really is addictive reading. And, shhh....: who is Mr Orange? (Includes a character with a brain injury). Age 14+ Paperback 431pp

'"Don't go digging up troubles," his mam called as he set off. "You and your da, you're the one pair. Digging up troubles like bad old potatoes"'. So begins this well-researched coming-of age narrative about Jim, a young traveller boy recently arrived in Dundray and the challenges he faces starting at the local 'Buffer' (non-Traveller) secondary school- including the challenge of not being able to read. Along the way, he forms a relationship with Kit who has her own painful struggles both at home and school. A wonderful, ultimately uplifting story about empathy and friendship triumphing over cruelty and prejudice. Dowd's 2004 short story is revived and recast with Shoard's atmospheric ink-and-wash illustrations which blend colours together in smudges cut across by sharp lines. 'A strongly truthful account of the conflict that arises from the deeply held prejudices within our society- in this case between 'travelling' and the 'house-based' population' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL rviewer). 'It's lovely to see The Pavee and the Buffer Girl make a reappearance, especially in these febrile times when we could all do with reminding to look for humanity in others instead of shutting them out' (The Book Bag 2018). Longlisted for the 2018 CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal. By an award-winning author firmly rooted in an ethos of human rights and empathy who also had friendship circles within Traveller communities. Age 11+, Paperback 101pp

Winner Little Rebels Award 2018 The rowdy, scatty, upbeat voice of 9-year-old Omar introduces the reader to his life in a new school which comes complete with a resident racist bully, a situation which only shifts once the two share an unexpected adventure through the London Underground chased by (probably...) a Zombie. A zany, cleverly challenging, warm-hearted book which is scattered with Omar's own, comic-tinged guide to Muslim life in the UK. A speedy plot carried by a hugely loveable protagonist who embraces a joyful Muslim identity for himself. The first in a new series! Age 7-10, Paperback 211pp **A new edition of the Winner of the Little Rebels Award 2018, 'The Muslims'**

"The first day of wearing hijab is important, Mama had said. It means being strong". It's the "first-day hijab" for Asiya. Little sister, Faizah, is very excited for her and approves of her choice of an ocean-coloured, sunny-skied blue. To Faizah's bafflement, some school children point, ask questions and throw insults. But, with great pride and love, she witnesses Asiya rises above the stares and words, with the echo of her mother's supportive voice buoying her up. (Co-) Written by an American-Muslim Olympic medallist fencer, the text is flushed through with (Egyptian-born Canadian) illustrator, Aly's luxurious, brightly coloured, ink washes. 'I had a smile on my face throughout the reading of this wonderful book. Fab storytelling, illustrations, relationships and imagery. Yes, yes, yes!!!' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). A wonderful book about hijab and family. Age 4 to 7, Paperback 33pp Click here to access the teaching sequence of activities for this book from Andersen Press, designed in partnership with CLPE.

Mean Jean rules with a push and a lollapaloosh...until the teeny but exuberant Katie Sue crosses her path. Hugely attractive and positive. 'YES, YES- loved this! Great vocabulary, strong illustrations and a good story!' (Primary Strategy Consultant, LL reviewer). Great for reading aloud. Age 4-7, American Import Hardback 29pp Themes: Bullying, Making Friends

Roman is off to summer day camp. Go-karting and playing galaxy slime is great- but, soon, another child starts to spoil his fun, staring at him, bumping in to him, taking his things away. Can Roman get the support he needs? Includes 'Next Steps' at the back, designed to help adults talk to children who are being bullied as well as those at risk of bullying others. 'I'm really impressed with how this book approaches this subject for young children. While giving lots of help and empathy for the child being bullied, it also acknowledges that the bully might need help too' (Kerry, letterbox Library Staff). Age 4-7, Paperback 21pp

A useful account of different types of bullying, from name calling to cyberbullying as well as explanations of what is -and what isn't bullying- and what to do if you are being bullied. 'Good definitions of bullying throughout, the impact of it, why people may bully and what to do' (Rosalind, Workforce Development Officer, LL reviewer). 'The rhetorical questions are great as it helps children to know what to do in a similar situation' (Hannah, Social Worker, LL reviewer). Includes parent/teacher notes, ideas for classroom/group activities and further sources of information. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

Scarlet comes from an 'itchy feet' family so moving to Norway is no big deal... but she hadn't reckoned with her new school being home to Greta the Cruel, a mean menacing giant of a child. After tearfully spilling out her woes to her Grandma (helped along by a few marshmallows) Scarlet is sent back out into the world wearing a treasured family heirloom: a scarlet hoodie. The hoodie doesn't just hug her with happiness and hope, it time-travels her off to an ancient world of Vikings. Here, Scarlet discovers hidden reserves of strength which equip her back in the present. A highly original, fun and, insightful adventure of bullying overcome with a heart-warming resolution. (Graphic novel perfect for reluctant readers.) Age 6-10, Paperback 52pp

"There are these people. They've got something on me. In turn, I've got something on one of the refugee boys. Hassan is new, so he doesn't have anything on anybody. He just wants to fit in". The Blokes are a group of boys at Jack's school, united in their fight to bully and ostracise the refugee, Black and Asian children. Jack befriends Hassan, a Syrian refugee who has just recently arrived- but now, the Blokes have given him orders to take Hassan down or else..." Will Hassan survive and will Jack finally learn to do the right thing? A timely story about racism, anti-immigrant prejudice, bullying and the power of friendship to triumph over hate. Reading Age 7+ Interest 10-14, Paperback 57pp

[Yes, it's that Nadiya Hussian- the Great British Bake Off star]. "Today I found my voice. You showed me it was hiding inside of me all the time". A perfectly child-centred picture book which goes beyond the usual anti-bullying books we see in its subtle approach. Told in a first person narrative, this child loves some of her days at school but finds others harder. Another child stares at her, laughs at her and blocks her way. The protagonist knows this is wrong but needs to find her voice…and then she does exactly that and entirely through her own reflection, resolve and self-determination. Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp

Omar's family have finally found refuge- a tower block in the UK. But local boy Sam keeps pushing Omar around. A brilliantly observed, witty and snappy narrative which challenges preconceptions about asylum seekers. Reading Age 8+ Interest 8-12, Paperback 52pp Themes: Bullying, Refugees and Migration

"The problem with growing up listening to bedtime stories about monsters, magic and myth is that you don't really question it when a lake summons you"... Vivi and her two mums relocate to London from Wales. Having been bullied at her last school, Vivi is anxious about the new start- especially as she finds reading people something of a challenge. But, little does she know that having answered Lake Llyn's call just prior to their departure, Vivi is now full of wizadry- the magic of the calons, Ceridwen specifically, and of that sword, Excalibar... Now all that's left is to find the rest of he calonnau! A spinningly magical world, drenched in Welsh mythology and anchored in contemporary London. The novel includes a brilliantly diverse array of characters. Vivi (like the author) is autistic and is raised by two mums. The merry band she forms in London includes amputee (and mixed race) triathlete, Stevie and, perhaps our favourite secondary character, non-binary Dara. Lovely book cover art from the wonderful Harry Woodgate too! Age 8-12, Paperback 352pp

How will Olly the bull help our hero defeat the bully Darren bishop? A great story about doing your best. Reading Age: 8+, Interest Age: 8+, 61pp Paperback