One of the best ways to prevent bullying is by having open conversations about what bullying is, how it affects others, and modeling the right way to treat one another. Books are an excellent way to start these conversations and give children concrete examples of bullying behavior and what to do about it.
Listed below are books to help empower children who are being teased, embolden children to stand up to the mistreatment of others, and teach them how to make the world a better place by being kind.
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You can also view many of these books on my BOOKSHOP STOREFRONT.
Books About Upstanders
During a bullying situation, an upstander is someone who intervenes and speaks up to stop the mistreatment. The following books star characters who find the strength to stand up for others.
One by Kathryn Otoshi
(Ages 4 and up)
This brilliant book uses numbers and colors to create a clever story about bullying and acceptance. Red is hot headed and enjoys picking on Blue. The other colors are too intimidated to help until the number One enters and teaches them all a meaningful lesson. This is one of my favorite books that is a must-read.
Willow Finds a Way by Lana Button; illustrated by Tania Howells
Kristabelle is the boss of the classroom and when she speaks everyone listens. When she threatens to disinvite people from her birthday party unless they do everything she says, however, she goes too far. Soft spoken Willow resolutely crosses her own name off Kristabelle’s birthday list giving others the strength to do the same. When Kristabelle is left friendless, Willow extends an act of kindness, that, in return, gives Kristabelle the confidence to apologize.
Willow is a wonderful role model and this relatable story is sure to resonate with many children. I also highly recommend Willow’s Whispers.
Super Manny Stands Up! by Kelly DiPucchio ; illustrated by Stephanie Gaegin
(Ages 4 and up)
Using his vivid imagination, an inventive raccoon battles pretend monsters until he encounters real-life problems. When Manny witnesses an act of bullying in the lunchroom even though he is frightened, he bolsters the courage to confront an unkind child and makes a new friend in the process.
I Walk With Vanessa: a story about a simple act of kindness by Kerascoet
(Ages 5 and up)
With themes of kindness, courage, and anti-bullying, I Walk With Vanessa is a must-have for classroom libraries.
When a young girl observes a hurtful act toward a new classmate, she decides to take action and extend kindness to the victim by walking with her to school. Soon several classmates join together and form a united front.
The book is made even more powerful by its lack of text. It allows readers to interpret the characters’ expressions and develop their own conclusions. This story is an excellent tool for teaching anti-bullying standards. It touches upon a child demonstrating bullying behavior, a victim, and a bystander. The story can be used to prompt an important discussion about each character’s role and the actions they take. Students can take turns role playing the characters and because there is no text, children can create their own dialogue further internalizing the situation.
My children were captivated by this story and asked for repeated readings, creating several important discussions.
Stick and Stone by Beth Ferry; illustrated by Tom Licthenheld
(Ages 4 and up)
Using flowing rhymes and hilarious puns, this funny and touching story focuses on the journey of friendship between a stick and a stone that begins when Stick stands up to a prickly pinecone making fun of Stone. Tom Lichtenheld’s illustrations are just fabulous and Beth Ferry’s scarce text is perfection.
The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade by Justin Roberts; illustrated by Christian Robinson
This sweet story demonstrates that we all have the power to stand up for what is right no matter our size!
Red by Jan de Kinder
(Ages 5 and up)
Although a girl first finds it funny that Tommy turns red when he blushes, she quickly regrets bringing attention to his flush face when Paul ruthlessly taunts him. As the teasing escalates into a push, the girl wants to stop Paul, but can’t find the words. Finally, when the teacher asks if anyone saw what happened she shyly raises her hand inspiring the other students to speak up too. This sensitive story is a poignant look at bullying from many different perspectives.
Books About Toxic Friendships
The Not-So-Friendly Friend: How to Set Boundaries for Healthy Friendships by Christina Furnival; illustrated by Katie Dwyer
(Ages 4 and up)
This impactful book is an excellent conversation starter on how to respectfully stand up for yourself and others when another child is being unkind.
When a sociable young girl is confronted by an unkind classmate, she learns to set appropriate boundaries. If the other girl is being nice, they can play and have fun, but as soon as the other girl becomes hurtful, the play ends. The girl states, “If you want to be kind, I’d be glad if you’d play, but if you don’t treat me right, you can go on your way.”
I really appreciate how the book shows the main character giving the other girl chances to make amends or join in, but as soon as she turns nasty, she’s done. She is also encouraged to seek a trusted adult if necessary as well. The book is further enhanced by a discussion guide in the back that is helpful for parents and teachers.
My Secret Bully by Trudy Ludwig
Monica and Katie have been friends forever, but recently Monica has noticed Katie whispering behind her back and pitting her against her other friends. When Monica finally shares how upset she has been with her mom, she learns what true friendship means and how to stand up for herself. With tips for parents and caregivers along with discussion questions, this book is a must-read for anyone experiencing relational aggression.
Just Kidding by Trudy Ludwig; illustrated by Adam Gustavson
(Ages 6 and up)
The thin line between joking and hurtful teasing is expertly addressed in this powerful story. Vince is consistently putting D.J. down following his unkind words with the phrase, “just kidding.” This realistic glimpse into one boy’s struggles to stand up for himself is very eye-opening. Complete with discussion questions, additional resources, and list of “Teasing Do’s and Don’t’s” this is an excellent conversation starter for classroom and home libraries.
Two of a Kind by Jacqui Robbins; illustrated by Matt Phelan
(Ages 5 and up)
Unfortunately, cliques occur way too often in schools and this helpful book addresses the lure of popularity versus true friendship. Even though Kayla and Melanie may not be the nicest girls, their coolness is oddly appealing. When Anna is invited into their exclusive twosome, she briefly abandons her best friend Julisa. Anna quickly discovers, however, that she has nothing in common with Kayla and Melanie and when tested to make the right choice in standing up for Julisa, she does.
My Friend Maggie by Hannah E. Harrison
(Ages 5 and up)
This is such a powerful and relatable story about peer pressure and standing up for your friends. Paula and Maggie have been best friends all their lives, but when another girl, Veronica, says something unkind about Maggie, Paula begins rethinking their long friendship. Paula starts playing with Veronica only to have Veronica then say something mean to her. Luckily, Maggie generously forgives Paula and stands up for her demonstrating what true friendship looks like.
I love everything Hannah E. Harrison creates and this accessible friendship tale is especially moving and beautifully illustrated.
Each Kindnessby Jacqueline Woodson; illustrated by E.B. Lewis
(Ages 6 and up)
This thought-provoking picture book uses a poignant story and lovely watercolor illustrations to present a unique view of kindness.
You may also like BOOKS ABOUT COMPARING AND JEALOUSY.
Books on Being a Good Friend
A Friend Like You by Frank Murphy and Charnaie Gordon; illustrated by Kayla Harren, 2021
I Don’t Care by Julie Fogliano; illustrated by Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal, 2022
(Ages 4 and up)
You know when you combine the talents of three powerhouse storytellers, it’s going to be good and this story is a true standout!
This beautiful book cleverly demonstrates the solid foundation of friendship based on trust, respect, and authenticity instead of superficiality. The book is made even more special because the two artists are best friends in real life and their unique styles meld perfectly together in this unforgettable friendship tale.
A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead; illustrated by Erin E. Stead, 2010
This is one of my all-time favorite picture books. It’s message of empathy and kindness is so incredibly heartwarming and the award-winning illustrations are absolutely charming.
Amos McGee works at the zoo and always makes time to give special attention to the animals. When he stays home from work one day due to illness, his friends make the trip to take care of him in return. This sweet and tender story is filled with amusing details that draw the reader in and will make children want to revisit for multiple readings.
Jenny Mei Is Sad by Tracy Subisak, 2021
(Ages 4 and up)
This beautiful friendship story teaches kids the importance of accepting friends for who they are and loving them during the good times and the bad. Jenny Mei is funny and kind, but also struggles with some bigger emotions that occasionally cause her to act out. The narrator demonstrates what it means to be a good friend by listening and being there to support Jenny Mei no matter what. While the text is sparse, this powerful book speaks volumes and is an excellent lesson in empathy.
Sometimes It’s Hard to Be Nice by Maggie C. Rudd; illustrated by Kelly O’Neill, 2021
This impactful book, takes very relatable situations and demonstrates to children that even though it may, at times, be challenging to be kind, it is well worth it! I love how this book acknowledges that doing the right thing is not always easy. Sometimes it takes practice and even courage to be nice. The relatable scenarios are sure to resonate with many readers and help them see the benefits of offering compassion.
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You may also like more BOOKS ON BEING A GOOD FRIEND .
Books to Empower Children Being Teased
While it breaks my heart that these books need to exist, I am thankful that there are several standout stories starring courageous characters who do their best to overcome negative attention from others and celebrate their uniqueness. I hope that these books will help children feel less alone and reassure them that they are extraordinary despite what anyone else says.
Llama Llama and the Bully Goatby Anna Dewdney
(Ages 3 and up)
With its flowing rhymes, this social emotional gem is an excellent choice to demonstrate to preschoolers that bullying behavior is not okay. When Gilroy Goat teases the other children about their singing and acts unkindly in the sand box, Little Llama and Nelly Gnu tell Gilroy to stop and when he doesn’t, they tell a teacher. After a talk with the teacher, Little Llama and Nelly Gnu give Gilroy another chance to play where they all enjoy the sand box.
A Normal Pigby K-Fai Steele
(Ages 5 and up)
Pip feels like a normal pig until a new pig comes to school and makes her question the things she likes. This engaging story takes a realistic scenario and helps reinforce the importance of celebrating differences and individuality.
Lola and the Troll by Connie Schultz, illustrated by Sandy Rodriguez, 2024
(Ages 4 and up)
When a troll-like figure criticizes Lola each time she passes by, she tries to change herself to avoid the troll’s attention. Unfortunately, the only thing she accomplishes is losing herself in the process. With the guidance of her librarian, Lola finds the bravery to stand up to the troll only to discover it is a new boy looking for attention. In a powerful scene, Lola forgives the boy, inspires him to apologize, and teaches him how to be a real friend. There are a lot of impactful messages wrapped up in this moving story about being true to yourself and standing up for what is right.
Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell; illustrated by David Catrow
(Ages 4 and up)
It is impossible not to root for the exuberant Molly Lou Melon. She may be short, clumsy, have buck teeth, and a voice that sounds like a bullfrog, but she also has a very wise grandmother who has endowed her with words of wisdom about being herself.
David Catrow’s eccentric illustrations are hilarious and perfectly exemplify Molly Lou’s vivacious spirit. This is one of my favorite read alouds that my children and my students asked for over and over.
The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijaband Familyby Ibtihaj Muhammad; illustrated by Hatem Aly
(Ages 5 and up)
Faizah could not be prouder of her sister as she wears her beautiful new hijab on the first day of school. She begins to doubt herself, however, when her sister faces unkind comments from other students. This book expertly weaves in themes of family, acceptance, fostering empathy, and finding inner confidence making it a real standout.
The Bug Girl by Sophia Spencer and Margaret McNamara, illustrated by Kerascoët
(Ages 5 and up)
Sophie Spencer poignantly shares her experience being teased due to her passion for bugs. After an especially traumatic bullying incident, Sophia was ready to put away her favorite hobby until she received a shocking amount of support from the entomologist society. Boosted by the knowledge that she is not alone in her interests, Sophie found the strength to not only pursue her love of bugs, but to help others embrace their own passions.
Chrysanthemumby Kevin Henkes
(Ages 4 and up)
This classic tale follows Chrysanthemum who absolutely adores her name until she starts school and the other children make fun of it. Bolstered by her favorite teacher’s first name, Chrysanthemum blossoms once again and proudly embraces her beautiful name.
My Footprints by Bao Phi; illustrated by Basia Tran
(Ages 5 and up)
On her way home, Thuy makes footprints in the snow representing a variety of animals. Once home, Thuy shares with her two moms how she is being teased at school and together they pretend to be the biggest, strongest animals they can imagine. Drawing upon the loving support of her family and her cultural heritage, Thuy creates an imaginative creature that helps give her strength and self-confidence.
Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun: Having Courage to Be Who You Areby Maria Dismondy; illustrated by Kim Shaw
(Ages 4 and up)
Sweet Lucy is completely caught off guard when Ralph begins teasing her about her hair and interests. When Ralph becomes stuck on the monkey bars, Lucy takes the opportunity to confront him and demonstrate what true friendship means by helping him. Inspired by Lucy’s act of kindness, Ralph draws her a picture as an apology.
Mister Rogers’ Gift of Music by Donna Cangelosi; illustrated by Amanda Calatzis
This beautiful biography of the famed Mister Rogers focuses on how Fred Rogers channeled his loneliness and hurt feelings from being teased into his music. When he got older, he wanted to share the joy music brought him with other children and created his celebrated television show. I just love how this book demonstrates how Fred Rogers took his negative emotions and directed them in a positive way allowing him to lead a life of kindness and giving back to others.
Sweetyby Andrea Zuill
(Ages 4 and up)
My kids and I just adore the exuberant Sweety! Sweety is a naked mole rat whose love for interpretive dance and mushrooms often leaves her feeling like an outsider. With some wise advice from her aunt, Sweety realizes that staying true to herself is the best way to be happy and find like-minded people.
With comical illustrations and a positive message about embracing your quirks, this is an exceptional read aloud.
You may also like my list of Best Books for Building Confidence and Self-Love in Children and Back-to-School Books That Build Confidence and a Positive Self-Image
Books About Inclusion
Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev; illustrated by Taeeun Yoo
(Ages 4 and up)
This charming story is a must-have. When a boy and his pet elephant are excluded from a pet club, he finds other children with unusual pets and they form their own club that welcomes everyone. Without being overly didactic, this lovely friendship story teaches children the beauty of inclusion.
Something Beautiful by Lita Judge
(Ages 4 and up)
This sweet story highlights the joy found in inclusion. As a group of animals meet a variety of creatures, they discover that whether friends have a lot in common or are very different,
life is more beautiful when you open yourself up to learning about and accepting others.
All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold; illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman
(Ages 4 and up)
Poignant language paired with colorful illustrations featuring a diverse group of students drive home the message that school is an inclusive and welcoming place to ALL. This is sure to become a classic classroom read aloud that is reread every year.
The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig; illustrated by Patricia Barton
(Ages 5 and up)
All too often introverted children can be overlooked in a classroom setting. This poignant story presents Brian in black and white as he quietly keeps to himself while secretly longing to make a friend. When a new boy finally notices him, Brian relishes in feeling accepted and is able to shine. An excellent discussion guide is also included.
Someone New by Anne Sibley O’Brien
(Ages 5 and up)
This is a powerful tool to teach children empathy and acceptance. When three immigrant children begin school, their classmates are not sure how to react. They want to welcome them, but have a difficult time communicating without speaking the same language. Through small acts of kindness, they find common ground and build friendships.
We Need Everyone by Michael Redhead Champagne, illustrations Tiff Bartel, 2024
Teachers looking to establish a sense of community will definitely want to get their hands on this uplifting story. The text recognizes that we each have a special gift and when we combine our talents, we form a stronger community. The book empowers readers to identify their own gifts and demonstrates how different attributes are needed to make the world a better place.
You may also like my list of BOOKS CELEBRATING DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION.
Books Celebrating Differences
Bodies Are Cool by Tyler Feder, 2021
(Ages 3 and up)
This joyous celebration of all different body types could not be more fun! The lively rhymes have an upbeat cadence that make this book a delight to read aloud while the bright inclusive illustrations feature almost every body shape and skin representation imaginable. Children (and adults) will feel seen and accepted in this rousing story!
Our Favorite Day of the Year by A.E. Ali; illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell, 2020
(Ages 5 and up)
On the first day of kindergarten, a teacher helps her diverse group of students become better acquainted by sharing their favorite day of the year. Eid Al-Fitr, Rosh Hashanah, Las Posadas, and Pi Day are all highlighted giving children a windows and mirrors experience where they may see themselves reflected in the characters or learn about new cultures. Additional information on each holiday is provided in the backmatter.
This is My Brain! A Book on Neurodiversity by Elise Gravel, 2024
(Ages 4 and up)
This fabulous book that teaches children how everyone’s brain works differently is an excellent read aloud to build empathy and respect for others. Through engaging illustrations and simple text, readers learn that because we all have unique brains, people may learn, act, and feel differently. Furthermore, because we are all different, everyone has something to offer that makes us stronger together. The book ends with tips on how to keep our brains healthy and strong.
The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson; illustrated by Rafael López
(Ages 5 and up)
At some point in our lives just about everyone feels like they don’t belong. This complex feeling can be especially confusing and scary for children. The Day You Begin is a powerful book that encourages children to celebrate their uniqueness and share their stories. In doing so, they will often find commonalities with others. With moving text and beautiful illustrations, this special story will resonate with a number of age groups.
This is How We Do It: One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids from Around the World by Matt Lamothe
(Ages 5 and up)
This brief glimpse into the life of seven children from countries including Uganda, Italy, Japan, India, Russia, Peru, and Iran provides readers with insight into how other people may live. The book follows the children as they prepare for a typical day starting with what their homes and families are like, what they eat for meals, an overview of their school day, and how they play.
The book ends with one final spread featuring the moon and the stars with the simple text, “This is my night sky” signifying that no matter how different our lives may be, we all have something in common. Photographs of the real families the book is based on appear in the back along with a glossary of words in different languages and a map of where the children live.
This is a fascinating book that gives children more of a global perspective.
Find more of my favorites in my BACK-TO-SCHOOL BOOKS CELEBRATING DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION.
Books Empowering Kids to Love Themselves and Respect Others
Gorgeously Me by Jonathan Van Ness, illustrated by Kamala Nair
“I am exactly who I’m meant to be. Perfectly, happily, gorgeously me.” I just love this uplifting and affirming story filled with beautiful illustrations.
I Am Every Good Thing by Derrick Barnes; Gordon C. James, 2020
(Ages 4 and up)
Striking illustrations illuminate a boy’s inner thoughts describing his self-confidence in this powerful book that begs to be read out loud. The imagery created by the child-friendly metaphors is almost tangible. “I am good to the core, like the center of a cinnamon roll. Yeah, that good.” This truly phenomenal book is a real standout and sure to help children build their own self-assurance.
A Little Bit of Everything by Meghana Narayan, illustrated by Michelle Carlos, 2024
This absolutely stunning book demonstrates how one’s identity is made up of lots of different experiences throughout their lives. This is a great conversation starter on how one’s culture, family, and different involvements shape who they are.
I Am Me: A Book of Authenticity by Susan Verde; illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds, 2022
(Ages 4 and up)
I adore books that empower children to embrace their uniqueness and encourage them to be their best selves, which is exactly the message in I Am Me. With its affirming text, delightful illustrations, and timeless message, this is a special book that can be revisited again and again through the years.
Find more BEST BOOKS ABOUT BUILDING SELF-LOVE AND CONFIDENCE.
Books About Kindness
Kindness Grows by Britta Teckentrup
(Ages 3 and up)
Kindness Grows uses lyrical, rhyming language to describe how hurtful actions can create distance between people while kind acts blossom into something beautiful. Die-cuts are brilliantly integrated to demonstrate the widening crack created by upsetting actions set opposite a stunning tree growing from caring deeds.
Words and Your Heart by Kate Jane Neal
(Ages 3 and up)
I could not love this book more. It does an incredible job of conveying the concept that words hold great power. Simple, engaging illustrations combined with playful text presented in various sizes and fonts create a child-friendly avenue for this important message. It touches upon the fact that words can be hurtful, but encourages the reader to use words to look after each other’s hearts. This book is beautifully crafted and impactful.
The Power of One: Every Act of Kindness Counts by Trudy Ludwig; illustrated by Mike Curato
(Ages 4 and up)
Just as she did in The Invisible Boy, Trudy Ludwig has created another impactful story that shows readers how each of us has the ability to positively impact someone else’s life even with the smallest act of kindness. The simple, but powerful text is complimented by eye-catching illustrations that showcase a flower that grows as a group of diverse children nurture their friendships.
Be Kind by Pat Zietlow Miller; illustrated by Jen Hill
(Ages 4 and up)
When Tanisha spills grape juice all over her new dress, most of the other kids laugh. However, one unnamed girl wants to be kind, but she is not exactly sure how. Poignant text matched with soft illustrations demonstrate the girl’s thought process as she thinks of examples of kindness she has experienced.
There are many books that cover this subject, but Be Kind stands apart. It does a remarkable job of providing an overview of kindness along with clear examples that make this abstract concept more concrete for children. It touches upon both the individual and global impact of kindness and while it may not always be easy to be kind, each small act is meaningful.
A Small Kindness by Stacy McAnulty; illustrated by Wendy Leach
Have You Filled a Bucket Today? A guide to daily happiness for kids by Carol McCloud; illustrated by David Messing
(Ages 4 and up)
This book plays on the idea that everyone has their own invisible bucket that represents their mental and emotional health. When we are kind to others, it not only fills their buckets, but also our own, making everyone happier. Conversely, if we are mean to others, we dip into their buckets and take away their joy.
With its clear message and engaging illustrations, this book does an excellent job of demonstrating how easy and rewarding it is to be nice to others. When I was a school librarian, this book was used in every classroom in the school and I use it now with my own children. It is effective and inspirational.
Find more of my favorite BOOKS ABOUT KINDNESS here.
Books About Overcoming Hate
Something Good by Marcy Campbell; illustrated by Corinna Luyken, 2021
(Ages 6 and up)
Inspired by true events, this powerful story skillfully captures the life-altering aftermath of discovering a hateful message left in a school bathroom. While the students initially felt upset, confused, and angry, they were able to process these difficult emotions by coming together to create a beautiful mural over the troubling message. With each student adding something beautiful, they were able to see each other in a new light and create a kinder, more empathetic place to learn and thrive.
Both the text and the mesmerizing illustrations create a truly remarkable and thought-provoking story.
Red and Green and Blue and White by Lee Wind; illustrated by Paul O. Zelinksy, 2021
Inspired by true events, this stirring story demonstrates how one small town overcame a terrible act and united as a community to show the importance of respecting differences.
Isaac and Teresa are friends and neighbors who are both looking forward to the upcoming holidays. When someone throws a stone through Isaac’s window extinguishing his menorah, Teresa places a picture of a menorah in her own window to show support for Isaac and his family. The idea catches on and soon the entire town places pictures of menorahs in their windows. From the library to local restaurants and stores, menorahs lined the streets filling more than 10,000 windows.
