Are you searching for the best books on bullying middle school? Look no further. As a book expert, I’ve curated a list of the top 20 books that address the sensitive yet crucial topic of bullying in middle school. These books offer insightful perspectives, relatable characters, and powerful narratives that will resonate with both victims and perpetrators of bullying. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or middle school student, these books provide valuable lessons and promote empathy, understanding, and resilience. Dive into these compelling stories and discover the impactful messages they convey. Let’s explore the world of bullying middle school books together.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Bullying Middle School Books
- 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 Final Thoughts on Best Bullying Middle School Books
- 23
20 Best Bullying Middle School Books
Wonder
by R.J. Palacio
Wonder by R.J. Palacio is a heartwarming and powerful book about the challenges of fitting in and finding acceptance in middle school. The story follows Auggie Pullman, a young boy with a facial deformity, as he navigates the ups and downs of starting fifth grade at a new school. As Auggie faces bullying, prejudice, and the complexities of friendship, the novel delves into themes of empathy, kindness, and the beauty of diversity.
This book about bullying in middle school tackles the difficult and often painful experiences that many young people encounter, and it does so with honesty, sensitivity, and hope. Palacio’s writing is engaging and thought-provoking, making Wonder a must-read for readers of all ages. The novel’s message is one of resilience, acceptance, and the importance of choosing kindness in the face of adversity. Wonder is a story that will stay with readers long after they’ve turned the final page.
Blubber
by Judy Blume
Blubber by Judy Blume is a compelling and thought-provoking book about the complexities of bullying in middle school. The story follows the experiences of Linda, who becomes the target of bullying by her classmates, led by the popular and mean-spirited Wendy. As Linda’s torment escalates, she grapples with feelings of isolation and betrayal, while navigating the challenges of adolescence and friendship.
This poignant and relatable novel delves into the dynamics of peer pressure, the cruelty of social hierarchies, and the emotional toll of bullying. Blume’s candid and empathetic portrayal of the characters’ struggles makes the narrative both heart-wrenching and illuminating. Through Linda’s perspective, readers gain insight into the devastating impact of bullying, as well as the resilience and strength needed to overcome it.
Blubber is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of bullying in middle school. Blume’s masterful storytelling and insightful exploration of the subject make this book a powerful and important addition to the conversation surrounding bullying in schools.
The Bully Book
by Eric Kahn Gale
The Bully Book by Eric Kahn Gale is a captivating and insightful novel that delves into the difficult and often painful world of middle school bullying. The story follows the experiences of a young boy named Eric Haskins, who finds himself the target of a relentless bully named Griffin. As Eric struggles to navigate this challenging situation, he stumbles upon a mysterious book that seems to hold all the answers to understanding and combating the bullying epidemic at his school.
Through Eric’s journey, readers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, as they witness the devastating effects of bullying on both the victim and the perpetrator. The Bully Book is a powerful and thought-provoking read that sheds light on the complexities of bullying in middle school, and the enduring impact it can have on young lives. With its relatable characters and compelling narrative, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics of bullying in the school environment.
Freak the Mighty
by Rodman Philbrick
Freak the Mighty, written by Rodman Philbrick, is a heartwarming middle-grade novel that explores the themes of friendship, courage, and overcoming adversity. The story follows the unlikely friendship between Maxwell Kane, a large and troubled boy, and Kevin, who is small but incredibly intelligent. Together, they form a unique bond and become known as ‘Freak the Mighty.’ As they navigate through middle school, they encounter various challenges and bullies, but their friendship gives them the strength to face these difficulties head-on.
With its powerful message and endearing characters, Freak the Mighty is a must-read for anyone looking for a book about bullying in middle school. The novel addresses important themes such as self-acceptance, empathy, and the impact of bullying on young people. Readers will be captivated by the compelling narrative and the uplifting journey of friendship and resilience. This book on bullying in middle school is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages.
The Misfits
by James Howe
The Misfits by James Howe is a captivating book about a group of middle school misfits who band together to stand up against bullying and promote acceptance and tolerance. The story follows a diverse group of friends, including four seventh graders who are fed up with being bullied and labeled as “misfits” by their classmates. When they decide to run for student council on a platform of ending name-calling, bullying, and discrimination, they face opposition and challenges that test their friendship and determination. The book tackles themes of friendship, identity, and standing up for what is right, making it a powerful and relatable read for middle schoolers. With its engaging storytelling and important message, The Misfits is a must-read for anyone looking for a book about bullying in middle school that promotes empathy and understanding.
The Revealers
by Doug Wilhelm
The Revealers by Doug Wilhelm is a compelling book about bullying in middle school. The story follows three students who are dealing with the harsh realities of being bullied and decide to take a stand against it. Russell, Elliot, and Catalina form an unlikely alliance and use their unique talents to expose the truth about bullying at their school. As they work together, they uncover the deep-rooted issues that contribute to the culture of bullying and strive to bring about positive change.
This book about bullying in middle school is a powerful and thought-provoking read that sheds light on the impact of bullying on students and the importance of standing up to injustice. The characters are relatable, and their journey is both inspiring and empowering. The Revealers is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the complexities of bullying and the resilience of those who choose to fight against it.
The Hundred Dresses
by Eleanor Estes
The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes is a poignant and timeless book about bullying in a middle school setting. The story follows a young girl named Wanda Petronski, who is teased and ridiculed by her classmates for wearing the same faded blue dress to school every day. Despite her claims that she has a hundred dresses at home, the other students continue to mock her, leading to a heartbreaking and thought-provoking exploration of empathy, compassion, and the power of words.
Through Wanda’s experiences, the novel delves into the harmful effects of teasing and exclusion, as well as the importance of standing up against bullying and embracing diversity. The Hundred Dresses is a powerful and moving tale that addresses themes of friendship, regret, and the impact of our actions on others. With its eloquent storytelling and relatable characters, it serves as a timeless reminder of the consequences of bullying and the significance of kindness and understanding in the middle school environment.
The Chocolate War
by Robert Cormier
The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier is a thought-provoking book on bullying in a middle school setting. The story revolves around a freshman named Jerry Renault who refuses to participate in his school’s annual chocolate sale, defying the corrupt authority of the school’s secret society, The Vigils. As a result, Jerry becomes the target of relentless bullying and intimidation, both from his peers and the school administration.
Cormier’s novel delves into the dark and often brutal dynamics of power, manipulation, and peer pressure in a middle school environment. The author masterfully captures the complexities of adolescent social structures and the consequences of standing up against them. Through Cormier’s powerful storytelling, readers are confronted with the harsh realities of bullying and the lasting impact it can have on young individuals.
With its raw and unflinching portrayal of the challenges faced by adolescents, The Chocolate War is a must-read for anyone interested in a compelling and poignant exploration of bullying in a middle school setting.
The Truth About Truman School
by Dori Hillestad Butler
The Truth About Truman School by Dori Hillestad Butler is a compelling and thought-provoking book about the insidious nature of bullying in middle school. The story follows Zeb and his friends as they navigate the complex social dynamics of Truman Middle School. When a series of hurtful and damaging rumors begin to circulate, the students are forced to confront the harsh reality of bullying and its impact on their community.
Butler skillfully addresses the sensitive topic of bullying, shedding light on the emotional and psychological toll it takes on its victims. Through the eyes of the characters, readers gain insight into the complexities of peer pressure, social exclusion, and the power dynamics at play in middle school environments. The book encourages empathy, understanding, and the importance of standing up against bullying.
The Truth About Truman School is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the challenges and realities of bullying in a middle school setting. Butler’s poignant storytelling and relatable characters make this book a powerful and impactful read for young readers.
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 and the complexities of bullying. The story follows David, a typical middle schooler who finds himself on the receiving end of bullying from a group of older kids. As he navigates through the ups and downs of adolescence, David learns valuable lessons about friendship, self-acceptance, and the true meaning of courage.
This book about bullying in middle school is a powerful and relatable story that addresses the universal theme of bullying in a way that resonates with young readers. Louis Sachar’s engaging writing style and compelling characters make this book a must-read for anyone who has ever experienced the challenges of growing up and dealing with the complexities of peer pressure. The Boy Who Lost His Face is not just a story about bullying in middle school, it’s a timeless tale of resilience, friendship, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
The Queen of Water
by Laura Resau and María Virginia Farinango
The Queen of Water, co-authored by Laura Resau and María Virginia Farinango, is a captivating and poignant coming-of-age novel that explores the themes of identity, resilience, and the impact of bullying on a young girl’s life. Set in Ecuador, the story follows the journey of a young Indigenous girl, Guadalupe, who is taken from her family and forced to work as a servant for a wealthy mestizo family. As she grows up, she faces discrimination, mistreatment, and bullying from those around her. The novel beautifully illustrates Guadalupe’s strength and determination as she navigates the challenges of her upbringing, finding her own voice and reclaiming her identity in the face of adversity.
This powerful and thought-provoking book sheds light on the harsh realities of classism, racism, and bullying in middle school, making it a compelling read for young adults and anyone interested in stories of resilience and empowerment. The Queen of Water is a must-read for those seeking a moving and inspiring narrative about overcoming bullying and finding one’s place in the world.
The Loser List
by H.N. Kowitt
The Loser List by H.N. Kowitt is a captivating book about the challenges of middle school life. Told through the eyes of Danny Shine, a seventh-grader who finds himself on the infamous “Loser List” after a humiliating encounter with the school bully, Chantal Davis. As Danny navigates the ups and downs of middle school, he grapples with the complexities of friendships, social status, and standing up to bullies. The story is filled with humor, relatable characters, and a heartfelt message about the importance of being true to oneself.
This book on bullying middle school sheds light on the realities of peer pressure and the impact of bullying on young students. Through Danny’s experiences, readers will find themselves cheering for him as he learns valuable lessons about self-acceptance and the true meaning of friendship. The Loser List is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider and a reminder that being true to oneself is the ultimate victory.
The Goldfish Boy
by Lisa Thompson
The Goldfish Boy by Lisa Thompson is a captivating middle-grade book that delves into the themes of isolation, friendship, and mystery. The story follows Matthew, a boy who suffers from severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and rarely leaves his house. When a toddler in his neighborhood goes missing, Matthew finds himself drawn into the search for the missing child. As he observes his neighbors from his bedroom window, Matthew uncovers secrets and learns about the complexities of human relationships. The book offers a poignant exploration of mental health and the impact of bullying, making it a powerful and thought-provoking read for middle schoolers. This gripping tale will resonate with readers who enjoy mysteries and stories about overcoming adversity. The Goldfish Boy provides a compelling narrative that will keep readers engaged from start to finish, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a captivating book on bullying middle school.
The Detention Club
by David Yoo
The Detention Club by David Yoo is a compelling book about bullying in middle school. The story follows four students who, for various reasons, find themselves in detention together. As they serve their punishment, they form an unlikely bond and discover that they have more in common than they thought. Through their interactions, they learn about friendship, empathy, and standing up to bullies.
This heartwarming and thought-provoking book about bullying in middle school touches on important themes such as the impact of bullying, the power of friendship, and the courage to speak up. David Yoo’s engaging storytelling and relatable characters make this a must-read for middle schoolers and anyone who has experienced the challenges of navigating friendships and bullies in the school environment.
If you’re looking for a book that tackles the tough topic of bullying in middle school with sensitivity and humor, The Detention Club is a perfect choice. It’s a story that will resonate with readers of all ages and leave a lasting impression.
The Survival Guide to Bullying
by Aija Mayrock
The Survival Guide to Bullying by Aija Mayrock is a powerful and compassionate book on bullying middle school. It offers a raw and honest insight into the world of bullying, providing practical advice and emotional support for young readers who may be experiencing similar challenges. Aija Mayrock draws from her own personal experiences with bullying, making her book relatable and empowering for those who are struggling.
This book about bullying middle school covers a wide range of topics, from dealing with cyberbullying and building self-confidence, to finding a support system and standing up for oneself. Its straightforward and accessible approach makes it a valuable resource for both victims of bullying and those who want to support them.
Through personal anecdotes and practical tips, The Survival Guide to Bullying provides a beacon of hope for anyone navigating the often tumultuous waters of adolescence. This bullying middle school book is a must-read for anyone looking to find strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Great Greene Heist
by Varian Johnson
The Great Greene Heist by Varian Johnson is an electrifying middle-grade novel that follows Jackson Greene, a mastermind at pulling off elaborate pranks. When he learns about a sinister plot to rig the middle school election, Jackson must assemble a team to stop the bullies from taking over the student council. With an assortment of gadgets, disguises, and clever schemes, the team embarks on an exhilarating mission to outsmart the bullies and ensure a fair election. This book is a thrilling and witty tale of friendship, bravery, and outwitting the school bullies. It’s a must-read for anyone looking for an entertaining and empowering story about standing up to injustice in a middle school setting.
The Thing About Jellyfish
by Ali Benjamin
The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin is a poignant and compelling middle-grade novel that deals with the sensitive topic of bullying in school. The story follows twelve-year-old Suzy as she grapples with the sudden and tragic death of her best friend, Franny. As Suzy struggles to come to terms with the loss, she becomes convinced that Franny’s death was caused by a rare jellyfish sting.
As Suzy navigates the complexities of grief and guilt, she also faces the harsh realities of bullying in middle school. Through her journey, the novel explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and the power of resilience. With its rich prose and heartfelt storytelling, The Thing About Jellyfish is a powerful book about bullying in middle school that will resonate with readers of all ages. It is a poignant reminder of the impact of bullying and the importance of empathy and understanding in the face of tragedy.
The Outcasts
by John Flanagan
The Outcasts by John Flanagan is a captivating book about the challenges of fitting in and finding belonging in middle school. This novel follows the story of a group of students who are considered outcasts and face bullying and exclusion from their peers. The main characters, Hal, Stig, and others, form an unlikely bond as they navigate the complexities of middle school life and confront the harsh realities of being ostracized by their classmates.
As they band together, the outcasts learn valuable lessons about friendship, loyalty, and the strength that comes from embracing their differences. The book sheds light on the emotional and psychological impact of bullying, and how resilience and solidarity can ultimately triumph over adversity. John Flanagan skillfully weaves together themes of courage, resilience, and the power of friendship in this compelling narrative that will resonate with readers of all ages.
The Crossover
by Kwame Alexander
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander is a captivating novel written in verse that tells the story of 12-year-old twin brothers, Josh and Jordan, who are basketball prodigies. Set against the backdrop of middle school life, the book delves into the complexities of family, friendship, and the challenges of growing up. As the brothers navigate their way through the ups and downs of adolescence, they must confront the pressures of competition, peer relationships, and the emotional turmoil that comes with it. The novel also addresses themes of rivalry, jealousy, and the impact of choices on personal and family dynamics. With its lyrical and engaging writing style, The Crossover is a powerful and poignant exploration of the universal experiences of coming of age and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. This book about bullying middle school is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will resonate with readers of all ages.
Out of My Mind
by Sharon M. Draper
Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper is a powerful and emotional book about a young girl named Melody who has cerebral palsy and is unable to speak or walk. Despite her physical limitations, Melody is incredibly intelligent and has a photographic memory. However, she struggles to communicate with those around her and is often underestimated and overlooked by her peers and teachers.
Throughout the book, Melody faces many challenges, including bullying and discrimination, as she fights to be seen and heard. The story is a poignant exploration of the impact of bullying in middle school and the importance of empathy and understanding.
As Melody navigates the difficult terrain of middle school, she discovers her own strength and resilience, and ultimately finds her voice in a way that no one could have imagined. Out of My Mind is a thought-provoking and heartwarming tale that sheds light on the experiences of those who are often marginalized and overlooked. It’s a must-read for anyone looking for a book about bullying in middle school.
Final Thoughts on Best Bullying Middle School Books
When it comes to addressing the issue of bullying in middle school, these 20 books about Bullying Middle School offer valuable insights and perspectives. By delving into the experiences of both bullies and their victims, these books provide young readers with the tools to navigate the complex social dynamics of middle school. Through powerful storytelling and relatable characters, these books offer important lessons about empathy, resilience, and the importance of standing up against bullying. Whether you are a parent, educator, or middle school student, these books serve as essential resources for addressing and understanding the impact of bullying.
Which book about Bullying Middle School is best?
The best book on Bullying Middle School can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- Wonder by R.J. Palacio,
- Blubber by Judy Blume,
- The Bully Book by Eric Kahn Gale.
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 about Bullying Middle School?
The best books about Bullying Middle School are:
- 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 about 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 five 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,
- 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.