The best books to read during anti bullying week

Everyday Action, Everyday Change: Stay Positive and Motivated in the Fight Against Racism and Prejudice

So often, bullying is rooted in racism. We’ve found this ant-racist book especially helpful to approach the topic with middle-grade readers. 

Natalie and Naomi Evans, the founding sisters of Everyday Racism, an association which specialises anti-racist training and activism, have come together to write a book for middle grade readers about how we can all make big changes, even if we think are actions are small. The book includes tips for practising positive everyday mindsets and empowering advice for dealing with the issues we see, hear about and face every day, from racism and sexism to homophobia and ableism. We also get to learn about achievable everyday actions to create change. 

We love that this book empowers its readers to be unafraid and believe they too can make waves in our world. 

Ella on the Outside

One of the most touching books about bullying and new school troubles for middle graders has to be Ella on the Outside, which perfectly explores the complexities of friendship.

Ella may be young, but she’s already faced so much for her age. From insecurities surrounding her eczema and her father being sent to prison for three years, to her family deciding to move somewhere new, where no one knows them, to start afresh. Ella must keep this secret, but it becomes increasingly complicated as she gets to know the girls at her school, whose relationship is also complicated. 

This book feels like a mixture of Jacqueline Wilson and Wonder at once; it distils the feeling of having a new start at such a young age, trying to be accepted by the most popular people in school, and wanting to find a true friend more than anything.

Doggy School: A Peanut, Butter & Crackers Story

It wouldn’t be a Toppsta recommendation without a graphic novel for our visual readers, would it? In this book, Peanut, Butter and Crackers have their own canine bullies to deal with…

We couldn’t recommend Peanut, Butter and Crackers graphic novels more when it comes to readers aged 7+. Peanut is still a puppy, and as such still has a lot to learn about life as a dog. Together with Crackers, off he goes to doggy school, but soon is met with some very not-so-nice dogs. And we all know cats have a profound sense of justice, so Butter will inevitably in to save the day…

This is a fantastic take on bullies for children who might be struggling with some in their own lives, and a story of how our true friends will always be there for us.

How to Be a Boy: and Do It Your Own Way

We all know parenting boys is no easy task, but we think Dr Ranj’s reassuring, warm and affirming guide for boys aged 10+ might just make it a little easier…

This is a brilliant non-fiction book that explores hobbies, standing up to your mates, mental health, stereotypes, peer pressure, respecting women and so much more, all while reflecting on what it really means to be a boy in today's world. We think every boy should read this, whether they struggle with their confidence or could use an extra push to empower them to be bolder.

This books is a wonderful gift to inspire our boys to be their true and selves and grow up happy with confidence.

I'm (Almost) Always Kind

Being kind is super important, but it isn't always easy. Using a goodhearted, enthusiastic little boy's perspective, a lot of sensitivity and a little gentle humour, this story explores the potential pitfalls of trying to be kind, and what being kind really means. To be truly kind, it turns out, you have to try to look at things from other people's points of view. Delicate laser cut holes accumulate as the pages are turned to show how kindness feels and how it can spread from person to person.

You're a Star: A Child's Guide to Self-Esteem

This practical guide combines proven cognitive-behavioural therapy methods used by child psychologists in schools with simple activities to help your child grow their self-esteem. It's aimed at children aged 7-11 because a lot happens in these years that can impact a child's sense of self-worth, not just now but for years to come.

Your child will be guided, with the help of Bop - a friendly and supportive character they can identify with - through fun and engaging activities which are interspersed with useful tips, inspirational statements and practical information for parents.