How would you react if a classmate was constantly teasing and invading your personal space? Deby Lyn is fed up with Kyle's unkind behavior towards her and she doesn't understand why she is the target. She speaks with a friend who recommends that she talk to an adult. Once Deby Lyn opens up and shares her concerns with Nurse Sanjay, she finds the courage to speak up to tell Kyle how his actions make her feel unsafe and uncomfortable. This book teaches children that sharing your feelings and getting advice from close friends and adults is a great strategy for conflict resolution.
This book tackles the very important issue of bullying but story lacks depth. I also didn't like that the the unkind behavior was explained as a result of the little boy "liking her". This puts more of the the responsibility to problem solve on Deby Lyn and somewhat absolves the Kyle of taking full responsibility for his role in the conflict. The problem was solved in a simplistic way and didn't feel realistic. I do like the idea of the story about the importance of communicating your feelings, self advocacy and talking openly with others about how their actions can make you feel. A great story in concept but room for improvement.