Sunday, May 17, 2009

Alley Oops

Author: Janice Levy

Type or emotional/crisis issue(s) addressed: Bullying

Year of Publication: 2005

Publisher & Location: Flashlight Press

ISBN#: 0972922547

Target Age Level: Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary

# of Pages: 32

Quality of Illustrations: Good

Brief Summary: JJ Jax is a bully. He’s been bullying an overweight boy named Patrick. JJ’s father talks to him about bullying and relates a story of when he was younger and he was a bully. The kid he bullied later became a cop and Mr. Jax that he now arrests people like him. Mr. Jax felt really bad for what he had done, but it was too late. JJ feels bad about his behavior. He goes to Patrick and apologizes. They become friends, and JJ discovers that Patrick is really good at arm wrestling.

Personal Comments/Biases, and/or Things to Consider When Using This Book With Children: The resolution is a bit forced, but it’s a good starting point for discussion.

Activity: Often the kids that are bullied have talents that are not seen by others. Challenge the students to look for the hidden talents in others. What can they see in other people that may be shy or insecure?

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