My Secret Bully

For ages 5-11. A touching, inspirational story, My Secret Bully instantly draws young readers into Monica's world, where she is bullied by a friend and learns how to cope, survive, and thrive. Relational aggression is an act of emotional bullying hidden among tightly knit networks of friends. Instead of using knives and fists to bully others, emotional bullies employ relationships, words and gestures as their weapons of attack. Emotional bullying is often dismissed as a normal rite of passage, but research shows it is as harmful as physical aggression, with devastating, long-term effects. Name-calling, humiliation, exclusion, and manipulation are some bullying tactics Monica's friend Katie employs. Monica learns to face her fears of betrayal and social isolation, and reclaims her power from the bully with the help of a supportive adult -- her mother. Helpful tips, discussion questions, and additional resources are listed in the back of the book, which is a wonderful vehicle for parents, teachers, and counsellors.