Are you looking for the best books on bullying middle school? Bullying is a prevalent issue that many middle school students face, and finding the right resources to address this topic is crucial. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or student, the power of literature can help shed light on this sensitive subject. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about bullying middle school, each offering unique perspectives and powerful storytelling to educate and empower readers.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Books About Bullying Middle School
- 2 Wonder
- 3 Blubber
- 4 The Bully Book
- 5 Freak the Mighty
- 6 The Misfits
- 7 The Revealers
- 8 The Hundred Dresses
- 9 The Chocolate War
- 10 The Truth About Truman School
- 11 The Boy Who Lost His Face
- 12 The Queen of Water
- 13 The Loser List
- 14 The Goldfish Boy
- 15 The Detention Club
- 16 The Survival Guide to Bullying
- 17 The Great Greene Heist
- 18 The Thing About Jellyfish
- 19 The Outcasts
- 20 The Crossover
- 21 Out of My Mind
- 22 Conclusion
- 23
20 Best Books About Bullying Middle School
Wonder
by R.J. Palacio
Wonder by R.J. Palacio is a heartwarming and impactful book about the challenges of bullying in middle school. The story revolves around Auggie Pullman, a young boy with a facial deformity, as he navigates the ups and downs of starting middle school. Through Auggie’s experiences, the book explores themes of acceptance, kindness, and friendship in the face of adversity. Palacio’s writing is both poignant and uplifting, making it a compelling read for both young adults and adults alike. This insightful and thought-provoking book sheds light on the realities of bullying in middle school and the importance of empathy and understanding. Wonder is a must-read for anyone looking for a powerful and inspiring story about overcoming obstacles and finding one’s place in the world.
Blubber
by Judy Blume
Blubber by Judy Blume is a compelling book about bullying in middle school. The story follows the experiences of Linda, who becomes the target of her classmates’ cruel teasing. The ringleader of the torment is a girl named Wendy, who takes pleasure in making fun of Linda’s weight and appearance. As Linda struggles to cope with the relentless taunting, she grapples with feelings of anger, sadness, and self-doubt. Blume’s poignant narrative delves into the complexities of bullying in middle school, exploring the impact it has on both the victim and the perpetrator. Through Linda’s journey, the novel offers valuable insights into the harsh realities of adolescent cruelty and the power dynamics within a school environment. Blubber is a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and emotional exploration of the challenges of bullying in middle school.
The Bully Book
by Eric Kahn Gale
The Bully Book by Eric Kahn Gale is a captivating and powerful book about bullying in middle school. The story follows the experiences of sixth grader Eric Haskins, who finds himself targeted by a relentless bully. When Eric stumbles upon “The Bully Book,” a manual that details the rules and tactics of bullying, he is forced to navigate a world of fear and intimidation. As he tries to understand and overcome the vicious bullying, Eric discovers surprising truths about himself and the power dynamics at play in his school. This gripping narrative sheds light on the complexities of bullying in middle school, and the emotional turmoil it can cause for young students. The Bully Book is a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the challenges of adolescence.
Freak the Mighty
by Rodman Philbrick
Freak the Mighty is a heartwarming and powerful book about two unlikely friends who overcome obstacles and bullying in middle school. The story follows the friendship between Max, a large and slow-witted boy, and Kevin, a small and physically challenged but incredibly intelligent boy. Together, they form an inseparable bond and embark on adventures that help Max discover his inner strength and courage. As they navigate the challenges of middle school, including bullying and discrimination, they learn valuable lessons about friendship, acceptance, and the power of imagination. Rodman Philbrick’s novel is a poignant and uplifting tale that addresses important themes such as friendship, bullying, and self-discovery. Readers of all ages will be inspired by the resilience and bravery of the characters in this unforgettable story.
The Misfits
by James Howe
The Misfits by James Howe is a compelling book about bullying in middle school. It follows a group of friends who are tired of being labeled as misfits and decide to run for student council on a platform of ending name-calling. Through their campaign, they face the harsh realities of bullying in middle school and the power dynamics at play. The book explores themes of friendship, identity, and the courage to stand up against injustice. With humor and heart, The Misfits is a thought-provoking and relatable read for young readers. It sheds light on the challenges of navigating the complexities of adolescence and the importance of speaking up against bullying in middle school.
The Revealers
by Doug Wilhelm
The Revealers by Doug Wilhelm is a compelling book about the challenges of middle school, focusing on the issue of bullying. The story follows three students, Russell, Elliot, and Catalina, as they navigate the treacherous waters of seventh grade. Each of them has experienced the pain of being bullied and decides to take a stand against it. They come together to create a secret group where they share their experiences and find the courage to confront the bullies at their school. Through their journey, they learn about friendship, empathy, and the power of speaking out against injustice. This book on bullying middle school is a powerful and engaging read that sheds light on the realities of adolescent bullying and the strength it takes to overcome it.
The Hundred Dresses
by Eleanor Estes
The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes is a poignant and timeless story about the impact of bullying in a middle school setting. The book follows the experiences of Wanda Petronski, a young girl who is teased and excluded by her classmates because of her Polish background and the hundred dresses she claims to have in her closet. As Wanda endures the cruelty of her peers, the story delves into themes of empathy, regret, and the power of standing up for what is right. Through the perspectives of Wanda’s classmates, the novel explores the complex emotions and dynamics of bullying in a way that resonates with readers of all ages. The Hundred Dresses is a thought-provoking and compassionate exploration of the lasting effects of bullying, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the topic.
The Chocolate War
by Robert Cormier
The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier is a compelling and thought-provoking book about the power dynamics and peer pressure in a middle school setting. The story follows Jerry Renault, a freshman at Trinity High, who decides to defy the school’s annual chocolate sale, which is run by a powerful secret society known as The Vigils. As Jerry’s resistance to the sale grows, he becomes the target of intense bullying from both his peers and the school administration. The novel delves into themes of conformity, rebellion, and the consequences of standing up against the status quo. With its raw portrayal of the brutal realities of bullying in a middle school setting, The Chocolate War is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of adolescent social dynamics.
The Truth About Truman School
by Dori Hillestad Butler
The Truth About Truman School by Dori Hillestad Butler is a compelling book about a middle school where a group of students create a secret online forum to expose the truth about their school. Told through the perspectives of different characters, the story delves deep into the issue of bullying in middle school, shedding light on the harsh realities that many students face. As the forum gains popularity, it sparks controversy and forces the students to confront the difficult choices they must make. The book addresses themes of cyberbullying, friendship, and the power of speaking up. With its engaging narrative and relatable characters, The Truth About Truman School is a must-read for anyone looking for a thoughtful and thought-provoking exploration of the challenges faced by middle school students.
The Boy Who Lost His Face
by Louis Sachar
The Boy Who Lost His Face by Louis Sachar is a captivating book about the challenges of middle school life. This engaging story follows the experiences of a young boy named David. After a prank goes terribly wrong, David finds himself facing the harsh realities of peer pressure, betrayal, and bullying in middle school. As he navigates through the complexities of friendships and social dynamics, David learns valuable lessons about courage, self-acceptance, and the true meaning of friendship. With its relatable characters and thought-provoking themes, this book about bullying middle school is a must-read for young readers. Louis Sachar’s compelling storytelling and insightful exploration of the struggles of adolescence make this a powerful and important read for anyone dealing with the challenges of growing up.
The Queen of Water
by Laura Resau and María Virginia Farinango
The Queen of Water is a captivating novel co-written by Laura Resau and María Virginia Farinango. This powerful coming-of-age story follows the life of Virginia, a young indigenous girl from Ecuador who is taken from her family and forced to work as a servant for a wealthy mestizo family. Throughout the novel, Virginia faces discrimination, mistreatment, and exploitation, but she ultimately finds the strength to reclaim her identity and pursue her dreams. The book delves into themes of oppression, resilience, and the pursuit of education, making it a compelling read for young adults. With its poignant portrayal of overcoming adversity and finding one’s voice, The Queen of Water is a must-read for anyone interested in stories of empowerment and triumph over adversity.
The Loser List
by H.N. Kowitt
The Loser List by H.N. Kowitt is a humorous and relatable book about the challenges of middle school. The story follows Danny Shine, a sixth-grader who finds himself on the dreaded “Loser List” after getting into a fight with the school bully, Chantal Davis. As Danny navigates the ups and downs of middle school life, he learns important lessons about friendship, loyalty, and standing up for himself. The book addresses the topic of bullying in a lighthearted and engaging way, making it a great read for middle schoolers. With its witty humor and authentic portrayal of the middle school experience, The Loser List is a must-read for anyone looking for a book about bullying middle school.
The Goldfish Boy
by Lisa Thompson
The Goldfish Boy by Lisa Thompson is a captivating middle-grade novel that delves into the theme of bullying in a unique and compelling way. The story follows Matthew, a 12-year-old boy who struggles with severe OCD and finds solace in observing his neighbors through his window. When a toddler in the neighborhood goes missing, Matthew’s observational skills come in handy as he embarks on a mission to solve the mystery. Along the way, he forms unlikely friendships and learns valuable lessons about empathy, understanding, and the complexities of human relationships. The novel skillfully addresses the sensitive topic of bullying in a middle school setting, showcasing the impact it can have on young individuals. The Goldfish Boy is a heartwarming and thought-provoking read that will resonate with readers of all ages.
The Detention Club
by David Yoo
The Detention Club by David Yoo is a compelling book about bullying in middle school. The story follows three students who form an unlikely bond while serving detention together. As they navigate the challenges of adolescence, they confront issues of identity, friendship, and the pressures of fitting in. The novel provides a poignant and honest portrayal of the struggles that many middle schoolers face, making it a relatable read for young readers. With its engaging narrative and relatable characters, The Detention Club is a must-read for anyone interested in a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of middle school life.
The Survival Guide to Bullying
by Aija Mayrock
The Survival Guide to Bullying by Aija Mayrock is a powerful and insightful book on bullying in middle school. This empowering guide provides practical advice, personal anecdotes, and coping strategies for anyone dealing with bullying. Aija Mayrock draws from her own experiences to offer valuable tips on how to build self-confidence, stand up to bullies, and seek support. The book also addresses the emotional and psychological impact of bullying, while providing readers with the tools to navigate through challenging times. The Survival Guide to Bullying is a must-read for anyone looking for guidance and support in dealing with the complexities of middle school bullying. This book about bullying in middle school is a beacon of hope for those who are struggling and a valuable resource for educators and parents seeking to understand and address the issue.
The Great Greene Heist
by Varian Johnson
The Great Greene Heist by Varian Johnson is a thrilling and clever middle-grade novel that follows the story of Jackson Greene, a charismatic and resourceful eighth grader who is determined to stop a school election from being rigged. With a diverse cast of characters and a witty and fast-paced plot, this book on bullying middle school tackles themes of friendship, trust, and standing up to injustice. Jackson and his friends use their skills and smarts to outmaneuver the school bully and ensure a fair election. Readers will be drawn into this clever and entertaining tale of friendship and empowerment, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a book about bullying middle school that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
The Thing About Jellyfish
by Ali Benjamin
The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin is a poignant and thought-provoking middle grade novel that delves into themes of grief, friendship, and resilience. After the sudden death of her best friend, 12-year-old Suzy is left grappling with intense feelings of loss and guilt. To make sense of her friend’s death, Suzy becomes fixated on the idea that a rare jellyfish sting was the cause. As she embarks on a journey to prove her theory, Suzy navigates the complexities of middle school life, including friendship dynamics and bullying. The book sensitively explores the impact of bullying in middle school and the profound effects it can have on young people. With its lyrical prose and heartfelt storytelling, The Thing About Jellyfish is a powerful and moving read that will resonate with readers of all ages.
The Outcasts
by John Flanagan
The Outcasts by John Flanagan is an enthralling tale of friendship, courage, and resilience. Set in a medieval world, this book follows the adventures of Hal and his group of misfit friends as they navigate the challenges of being outcasts in a society that values strength and conformity. The story delves into themes of loyalty, bullying, and the power of standing up for what is right. As they face bullies and adversity, the characters must rely on each other and their own inner strength to overcome the obstacles in their path. With its action-packed plot and relatable characters, The Outcasts is a captivating read for anyone seeking a compelling book about bullying in middle school.
The Crossover
by Kwame Alexander
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander is a captivating novel-in-verse that follows the story of twin brothers, Josh and Jordan, who are basketball prodigies. As they navigate the challenges of adolescence, they also face the ups and downs of their relationship on and off the court. The book explores themes of family, friendship, love, and the struggles of growing up. With its rhythmic and lyrical writing style, The Crossover provides a unique and engaging reading experience that will resonate with readers of all ages. This coming-of-age story also delves into the complexities of sibling dynamics and the impact of rivalry, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the dynamics of family relationships. The Crossover also touches on the topic of bullying in middle school, shedding light on the emotional and psychological effects it can have on young adolescents.
Out of My Mind
by Sharon M. Draper
Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper is a compelling and heartwarming book about a young girl named Melody who has cerebral palsy. Despite her physical limitations, Melody is incredibly intelligent, but struggles to communicate with those around her. The story follows her journey as she fights to be heard and understood, facing challenges and prejudices along the way. This powerful narrative explores themes of resilience, determination, and the importance of empathy. Through Melody’s experiences, the book sheds light on the struggles of individuals with disabilities and the impact of bullying in a middle school setting. Draper’s poignant storytelling and vivid characters make this a must-read for anyone looking for an inspiring and thought-provoking story about overcoming adversity.
Conclusion
When it comes to tackling the issue of bullying in middle school, these 20 books about Bullying Middle School are essential resources for both students and educators. Through powerful storytelling and relatable characters, these books shed light on the impact of bullying and offer valuable lessons on empathy, resilience, and standing up for oneself. By incorporating these books into school curriculum and discussions, we can work towards creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all students.
Which Bullying Middle School book is best?
The best book on Bullying Middle School can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Bullying Middle School?
For those looking to learn about Bullying Middle School, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- Wonder by R.J. Palacio,
- Blubber by Judy Blume,
- The Bully Book by Eric Kahn Gale,
- Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick,
- The Misfits by James Howe,
- The Revealers by Doug Wilhelm,
- The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes,
- The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier,
- The Truth About Truman School by Dori Hillestad Butler,
- The Boy Who Lost His Face by Louis Sachar
These books offer a range of perspectives on Bullying Middle School, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books on Bullying Middle School?
The best books on Bullying Middle School include:
- Wonder by R.J. Palacio,
- Blubber by Judy Blume,
- The Queen of Water by Laura Resau and María Virginia Farinango,
- The Loser List by H.N. Kowitt,
- The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier,
- The Revealers by Doug Wilhelm.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Bullying Middle School are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Bullying Middle School books of all time?
Choosing the best Bullying Middle School books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
- Wonder by R.J. Palacio,
- Blubber by Judy Blume,
- The Misfits by James Howe,
- The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier,
- The Boy Who Lost His Face by Louis Sachar,
- The Loser List by H.N. Kowitt,
- and The Queen of Water by Laura Resau and María Virginia Farinango.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Bullying Middle School and continues to be influential today.