10 Books About Bullying for Children (2024)

Books about bullying can provide children with relatable stories and valuable lessons about empathy, resilience, and standing up for themselves.

Around 19.2% of students in grades 6-12 reported being bullied during the 2021-2022 school year, with middle schoolers (26.3%) experiencing higher rates than high school students (15.7%) [*]. Female students also face bullying more frequently (21.8%) than males (16.7%).

Research shows that bullying can lead to long-term mental health issues, often due to the development of interpersonal distrust [*]. Repeated bullying makes children view others as untrustworthy or hostile. This lack of trust disrupts emotional growth, which makes it harder for them to form healthy relationships later in life.

As adults, we can help children learn about bullying by providing books that teach empathy, resilience, and how to stand up for themselves.

10 Best Books About Bullying for Children

Are you searching for impactful, age-appropriate stories to address bullying? Here are the ten best children's books about bullying to guide kids through understanding and combating bullying in 2024.

1. Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson

This book teaches children the importance of kindness through a story about a girl who regrets not being kind to a new student. It shows how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life.

Woodson's simple yet powerful narrative encourages empathy and self-reflection.

Price: $11.30 on Amazon, $18.99 on Barnes and Noble

2. Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Wonder tells the story of August Pullman, a boy with a facial difference, and the challenges he faces when starting school.

The novel highlights the importance of kindness, understanding, and acceptance through the perspectives of August and his classmates. It encourages readers to put themselves in others’ shoes.

Price: $10.29 on Amazon, $17.99 on Barnes and Noble

3. Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell

Molly Lou Melon is a small girl with a big heart who refuses to let bullies bring her down.

This story celebrates courage and self-confidence and teaches children the importance of embracing who they are. It inspires young readers to stand up for themselves and others.

Price: $8.26 on Amazon, $18.99 on Barnes and Noble

4. Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes

Chrysanthemum is a heartwarming story about a little mouse who struggles with teasing because of her unique name. As she learns to embrace her individuality, the book encourages young readers to appreciate their differences.

Henkes delivers a gentle message about self-acceptance and resilience.

Price: $6.20 on Amazon, $9.99 on Barnes and Noble

5. Enemy Pie by Derek Munson

This book tells the story of a boy who learns about friendship when his father teaches him how to make "enemy pie."

The story shows how misunderstandings can turn into lasting friendships with a little effort and kindness. It's a great way to teach children about resolving conflicts and the importance of compassion.

Price: $9.99 on Amazon, $16.99 on Barnes and Noble

6. Cyber Bullying: Bullying in the Digital Age by Robin M. Kowalski

This book explores the growing issue of cyberbullying through real-life examples and practical advice. It helps children understand the emotional and social consequences of online bullying.

Kowalski’s work empowers young readers to recognize and stand up against digital bullying.

Price: $80.92 on Amazon

7. One by Kathryn Otoshi

This story introduces young readers to Blue, a quiet color often picked on by the fiery Red, while other colors stay silent. When One steps in, the colors learn the importance of standing up for themselves and others.

Alongside lessons in counting and colors, this book delivers a powerful message about courage and celebrating differences.

Price: $16.16 on Amazon, $17.95 on Barnes and Noble

8. Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev

This story about a boy and his pet elephant shows how inclusion and kindness can help others feel welcome. When no one will let the boy’s elephant join their club, he forms a new club for anyone who’s been left out.

It’s a simple yet effective way to teach children the importance of accepting others and promoting inclusivity.

Price: $10.79 on Amazon, $18.99 on Barnes and Noble

9. The Survival Guide to Bullying: Written by a Teen by Aija Mayrock

The Survival Guide to Bullying provides practical tips for dealing with bullying, including cyberbullying, managing fear, and building self-confidence. With inspiring poems, personal stories, and helpful quizzes, it empowers readers to take charge of their lives.

This updated edition includes new content, such as advice on talking to parents and a special Q&A with the author.

Price: $7.35 on Amazon, $10.99 on Barnes and Noble

10. I Am Enough by Grace Byers

This book teaches children to embrace their worth and overcome their fears by recognizing their unique qualities.

Through beautiful illustrations, I Am Enough encourages children to love themselves. It inspires self-confidence and reminds kids that they are enough just as they are.

Price: $10.49 on Amazon, $19.99 on Barnes and Noble

The Bottom Line

By providing children with books on bullying, you equip them with the tools they need to overcome challenges with kindness, empathy, and resilience. The best bullying books for kids should not only help young readers understand bullying but also empower them to stand up for themselves and others.

For additional support, explore our collection of social skills worksheets to further enhance your child's emotional and social development.

References:

1. Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs (ASPA). (2024, October 9). Facts about bullying. StopBullying.gov. https://www.stopbullying.gov/resources/facts
2. Study finds childhood bullying linked to distrust and mental health problems in adolescence. (2024, February 13). UCLA Health. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/release/study-finds-childhood-bullying-linked-distrust-and-mental