Bullying by Beth Rosenthal

Book Details
This book is part of an “Introducing Issues with Opposing Viewpoints” series.  It allows for creating a discussion around the topic of bullying while at the same time promoting critical thinking.  Although this book seems best suited for use in a classroom setting, it certainly would serve as another excellent resource for tweens wanting to explore the topic on their own.  At first glance the opposing viewpoints format seems perhaps forced to fit the topic, but on closer investigation one discovers the complexity of bullying does in fact lead to many different theories and opinions about many aspects of bullying. One example of opposing viewpoints in the book is the contrast between two programs designed to prevent bullying yet with very different philosophies.  One program helps the victim by providing support from parents, bullies, bystanders schools and communities. The other program believes the only way to end the cycle is for the victim to befriend the bully.  Other aspects include; the role of video game violence in bullying, the influence of parents behavior and television, homeschooling as a prevention, victims fighting back and regulating recess at schools.   There are many “Fast Facts” throughout the book like “As of March 2007, forty-one states have antistalking statutes that specifically address cyberbullying.”
Review
I especially like the “Facts about Bullying” section that reveals such facts as 160,000 children miss school every day out of fear of being bullied and that bullying takes place most often in grades 6 through 8. Graphics, charts and photographs enhance the interest and readability of the book. Nine organizations, fifteen books, over sixty journal articles and three websites are provided as further resources on the topic.  Definitely recommended.

Interest Age/Reading Level
Recommended for grades 7 to 9

Rosenthal, B. (2008). Bullying. Detroit: Greenhaven Press.