The Bully Book

Book:  The Bully Book (Book Link)
Author: Eric Kahn Gale (Author Link)
Illustrator: None
Publisher: Harper Collins Publisher
Date of Publication: 2013
Genre: Middle School Readers, Early Chapter Book
Lexile Score: HL620L
Citation: Gale, E. K. (2013). The Bully Book. New York, NY: Harper Collins Publisher.

Summary: The main character Eric was created to showcase things that happened to the author when he was in 6th grade.  Throughout the book his classmates turn on him and he has to find a way to stand up to them, because he has been labeled "the grunt".  This is the student that everyone picks on throughout the year.  The book has many in depth examples of bullying that Eric goes through, and threats that these bullies make against him.  However Eric is able to overcome these bullies and in the end come out on top.

Audience:  I would say this book would be targeted at grades 6th through 12.  I think that the book has many aspects that are relatable in those age ranges.  For example they might be able to relate to some of the things that Eric is going through.  It would be a great unit book to have in an English classroom as well because it would be able to fulfill literary terms using this book.  Also with the content it would keep the reader engaged, and understanding the importance of standing up to bullies.

Evaluation: I thought this would be a very engaging book for middle school readers.  Since the book is written in journal entry format, it makes it a quick and interesting read.  As the reader you always want to know what is going to happen next, so it definitely keeps you reading.  There are some dark sections of the book that make it almost difficult to read however, and may be a little much for any younger than middle school readers.  However overall it gives a great look into the life of someone who is bullied.  

Activity: 
Have the students write a journal entry.  In their journal entry have them write a letter to themselves that they will read again at the end of the year.  This way they can note specific things that are currently happening in their lives and be able to see how things change over the course of 1 year.