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A powerful story showing the damaging effect of neg. words/actions while encouraging kids to be kind, stand up for themselves, & seek help.
Harrison wants to fit in at school, but this seems impossible when Billy makes fun of him for looking and sounding different. With help from his school counselor, family, and a new friend, Harrison learns a simple but powerful word to help him stand up for himself.
While empowering families everywhere, this relatable story supports the development of children's unique voices.
As we reflect upon our academic years, we all recall that one kid who bullied others. Who, for no apparent reason, targeted you or others and made school quite unbearable. Conversely, you might envision a close friend you leaned on, confided all your troubles, and shared your happy moments with. Harrison didn't understand why Billy was so unkind to him. Billy wouldn't play with him, didn't allow him on the boat, and laughed at Harrison's face. This behavior was shameful, but unfortunately, Billy's actions toward Harrison are common practice in our society.
Harrison faced a few peer-related problems in this beautifully illustrated children's book - problems the author wants your input on during the discussion question section. Talk about a time when someone was unkind to you. What did you do? Is there anything else you could do if this happened again? After an altercation with Billy, Counselor Dan talks to Harrison. He calmly told Harrison that no good comes from violence (Harrison threw an acorn at Billy). He said maybe Billy has no idea the effects his actions had against Harrison. He encourages Harrison to say ‘ouch’ when someone upsets him so the person can understand their mistake. And, if Harrison hurts someone else, he should say ‘oops’ to show he didn't mean it. Counselor Dan informed Harrison that he is under no obligation to play with someone who is being mean. Stand up for yourself!
It's important to teach our kids to be kind to others, and if they say or do something hurtful, they should apologize at once. It's all vital that adults lead by example! Harrison didn't think the other kids liked him. He let the actions of a classmate keep him from attending class. I applaud Harrison for sharing his feelings and troubles with his parents and counselor. It takes great strength to take the first step in getting help.
Harrison took their counselor's advice and stood up to Billy; in doing so, we see another side of Billy: gentler. I see brighter days for Billy (goose) and Harrison (squirrel)! Their drama and happy resolution will hopefully make kids see others in a positive light, leading to less drama and more acceptance.
I recommend sharing this story with your pre-k and young elementary students. Show the power negative words can have on a person and encourage your class and family NOT to mock or laugh at someone for their physical disabilities or appearance. Be kind. Be accepting. Treat others how you want to be treated. And, if you are ever hurt, sad, or need help in any way, please talk to an adult or friend. Finally, never let the actions of others diminish your sparkle!
The end credits mention Harrison has Moebius syndrome, a condition that causes his face not to move like others. For more information about the condition, visit moebiussyndrome.org.
4.5 stars
Reviewed by
I've been constructing reviews for over a decade and don't plan on stopping anytime soon. Most of the reviews will be featured on my blog (Kam's Place), Pinterest, Instagram, BlueSky, and Goodreads. Don't forget to tip your waitress! :D
Synopsis
Harrison wants to fit in at school, but this seems impossible when Billy makes fun of him for looking and sounding different. With help from his school counselor, family, and a new friend, Harrison learns a simple but powerful word to help him stand up for himself.
While empowering families everywhere, this relatable story supports the development of children's unique voices.
About the author
As a disability rights advocate, mental health therapist, and educator, Katherine is passionate about disability representation and inclusion in children’s literature. Growing up with cystic fibrosis and diabetes, she understands the profound importance of seeing disabled people represented. view profile
Published on October 16, 2024
0-1000 words
Genre: Children's
Reviewed by
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