The main character, Anna, is self proclaimed - "nice," "smart," "sweet," and "fun" ....and.... a "bully." How could that be?! How can one be nice, sweet, smart, and fun AND be a bully? This book debunks the "bully stereotype" as only being the big, dumb, mean guy or the self-absorbed, air-headed mean girl that we might see on TV or read about in books. All of us, may in fact, be acting like "bullies." Melody Arabo steps the kids through scenarios and then gives the readers some thought-provoking questions: Have you ever made someone feel unwanted? Have you ever made someone feel left out? Have you ever made someone feel all alone? Have you ever spread a rumor? Have you ever embarrassed someone? Can you find a student or an adult, for that matter, than has never answered "yes" to any of these questions? Probably not.
Ms. Arabo brings lots of real world examples from her experience as a 3rd grade teacher to this book. There is hope at the end. Anna realizes her actions are hurtful and she commits to being more aware of the looks she gives, the things that she says, and more importantly, the way she says them. Anna made this choice. Will you?
Diary of a Real Bully is a great read aloud for #TakingCareThurs and helps teach the kids the importance of taking care of ourselves and taking care of others!
"The smallest actions will make the biggest difference."