Pawsitive School Counselor

Just Kidding by Trudy Ludwig

This relatable story addresses emotional bullying among boys, focusing on a classmate who uses teasing disguised as jokes.

Talking Points:

• Emotional bullying
• Relational aggression
• The difference between teasing and bullying
• When “just joking” actually hurts

This book is especially helpful for discussing subtle social cruelty that often flies under the radar.

Sorry! by Trudy Ludwig

Jack realizes that genuine forgiveness involves accepting responsibility for harmful actions, not merely saying “sorry.”

Talking points:

• Sincere apologies
• Personal accountability/
• Responsibility
• Empathy

This book is really helpful for kids who quickly say “sorry” to avoid taking responsibility. It helps them understand that acknowledging the hurt caused and making amends is essential.

Better Than You by Trudy Ludwig

Tyler feels inadequate because of his friend Jake’s constant bragging. Tyler eventually realizes that Jake’s boasting stems from his own insecurities, not his own shortcomings.

Talking points:

• Frienship
• Bullying
• Self-Esteem/Valuing Your Own Strengths

A wonderful read for your competitive boys who like to brag.

Simon’s Hook by Karen Gedig Burnett

Simon is having a rough day after his sister gives him a strange haircut, and his friends tease him. Luckily, he runs into Grandma Rose, who teaches him how to deal with the teasing.

Talking points:

• Teasing/Putdowns
• Standing up for yourself

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig

A powerful story about inclusion and exclusion—and how one small act of kindness can change everything.

Talking Points:

• Social bullying
• Inclusion and exclusion
• The impact of noticing someone who feels invisible
• Small acts that make a big difference

This book is excellent for conversations about empathy and belonging.

Partner with my book companion activity set.

Nobody Knew What to Do by Becky Ray McCain

This story highlights how one child bravely reports that Ray is being bullied at school.

Talking Points:

• Reporting to a trusted adult
• Fitting in
• Standing up for someone else
• Bystander vs. upstander behavior

It opens the door for important discussions about courage and responsibility.

Turn Away From Teasing by Gill Hasson

Part of the Kids Can Cope series, this book includes both male and female examples and provides practical strategies for handling teasing.

What makes this one especially valuable is the extensive backmatter and helpful tips for adults.

Talking Points:

• Speaking up for yourself
• What to do when you see someone being teased
• Naming feelings associated with teasing
• Practical coping tools

This is a strong choice for skill-building lessons.

Sometimes It’s Hard to Be Nice by Maggie C. Rudd

Featuring both male and female characters, this book conveys an important truth: some days, being kind requires practice—or even courage.

Talking Points:

• Conflicts with siblings
• Patience with peers
• The effort it takes to choose kindness
• Understanding that kindness is a skill

This book works beautifully for reinforcing social-personal learning goals.

Nobody!: A Story About Overcoming Bullying in Schools by Erin Frankel

Thomas feels like no matter what he does, he can’t escape Kyle’s persistent bullying. At school, at soccer—nowhere feels safe! “Mom said Kyle would grow up over the summer and stop picking on me, but he didn’t grow up, he just Thomas feels trapped by Kyle’s constant bullying at school and on the soccer field. “Mom said Kyle would mature over the summer, but he just got taller.”

Talking points:

• Kindness
• Self confidence

You can also find this book on Epic!

Enemy Pie by Derek Munson

It was the perfect summer until Jeremy Ross moved in and became the neighborhood enemy. Luckily, Dad had a plan: Enemy Pie, which involves spending a day playing with your enemy.

Talking points:

• Overcoming conflict
• Friendship

Watch it on Storyline Online.