Hot Topic: Bullying

There has been a lot of buzz in the media about the Motion Picture Association’s decision to give the new documentary, “Bully,” an R-rating, preventing teens from seeing the film. Many filmmakers, parents, and even politicians have been challenging the rating decision, lobbying to make “Bully” PG-13 and therefore available to a wider audience. The Weinstein company has decided to release the film on March 30th as unrated, having not been able to sway the MPA from the R-rating.

Bullying is an emotionally and intellectually challenging topic for children and adults. Why do some kids bully and why do some kids get bullied? What can be done about it?

Librarians are often asked to help find resources to help children, parents, teachers and schools approach this tricky subject.

Our fabulous children’s librarians made a list of children’s books that address bullying, but here are a few picture books that delve into bullying as well:

The Boy With Pink Hair by Perez Hilton

Yes, this picture book is by that Perez Hilton, blogger to the stars. I am usually reluctant to try celeb-penned children’s books, but found myself impressed by this charming story about a boy who doesn’t let one kid with a “bad attitude” get to him. I appreciated that the bully in this book is humanized and reformed by inclusion; this isn’t always the case, to be sure, but the reminder that bullies may be acting out because they fear rejection or want to be included is important. Celebrating the joys of being atypical, in a broad way, the pink-haired boy’s irrepressible pluck and his mother’s words sang so sweet and true: “Some people might want to make fun of you, but don’t listen to them….One day you will find that your difference makes a difference.”

 Hooway for Wodney Wat by Helen Lester

Rodney is a rodent who can’t pronounce his r’s, so kids constantly tease his speech impediment by calling him “Wodney Wat.” But when loud, proud Camilla Capybara joins his class and starts pushing everyone around, Rodney finds himself in a position to turn the tables on the new bully when he gets chosen to lead Simon Says. Camilla gets her comeuppance, and Rodney’s classmates celebrate his bravery. The only downside here is that the bully gets bullied.

 Leave Me Alone by Kes Gray

A little boy sits on a grassy hill telling each woodland animal friend to leave him alone until he reveals that a giant has been picking on him. This is a story about strength in numbers and asking for and accepting help.

Have other suggestions? Need more resources on bullying? Let us know!