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Mean Girl Makeover #1
So Not Okay: An Honest Look at Bullying from the Bystander
There is no such thing as neutral.
According to the Ambassadors 4 Kids Club, one out of every four students is bullied--and 85% of these situations never receive intervention. Parents, students, and teachers alike have amped up the discussion of how to solve the bullying problem for a networked generation of kids.
Written by bestselling author, Nancy Rue, each book in the Mean Girl Makeover trilogy focuses on a different character's point of view: the bully, the victim, and the bystander. Each girl has a different personality so that every reader can find a character she relates to. The books, based on Scripture, show solid biblical solutions to the bullying problem set in a story for kids.
"So Not Okay "tells the story of Tori Taylor, a quiet sixth grader at Gold Country Middle School in Grass Valley, California. Tori knows to stay out of the way of Kylie, the queen bee of GCMS. When an awkward new student named Ginger becomes Kylie's new target, Tori whispers a prayer of thanks that it's not her. But as Kylie's bullying of Ginger continues to build, Tori feels guilty and tries to be kind to Ginger. Pretty soon, the bullying line of fire directed toward Ginger starts deflecting onto Tori, who must decide if she and her friends can befriend Ginger and withstand Kylie's taunts, or do nothing and resume their status quo. Tori's decision dramatically changes her trajectory for the rest of the school year.
Features & Benefits: Book #1 in a new middle grade fiction series for tween girlsBullying is "the" topic of awareness in schools and the mediaSeries will tell the story in three different perspectives: the bully, the victim, and the bystander"So Not Okay" tells the story of the bystander, a role in which many tweens find themselves.
According to the Ambassadors 4 Kids Club, one out of every four students is bullied--and 85% of these situations never receive intervention. Parents, students, and teachers alike have amped up the discussion of how to solve the bullying problem for a networked generation of kids.
Written by bestselling author, Nancy Rue, each book in the Mean Girl Makeover trilogy focuses on a different character's point of view: the bully, the victim, and the bystander. Each girl has a different personality so that every reader can find a character she relates to. The books, based on Scripture, show solid biblical solutions to the bullying problem set in a story for kids.
"So Not Okay "tells the story of Tori Taylor, a quiet sixth grader at Gold Country Middle School in Grass Valley, California. Tori knows to stay out of the way of Kylie, the queen bee of GCMS. When an awkward new student named Ginger becomes Kylie's new target, Tori whispers a prayer of thanks that it's not her. But as Kylie's bullying of Ginger continues to build, Tori feels guilty and tries to be kind to Ginger. Pretty soon, the bullying line of fire directed toward Ginger starts deflecting onto Tori, who must decide if she and her friends can befriend Ginger and withstand Kylie's taunts, or do nothing and resume their status quo. Tori's decision dramatically changes her trajectory for the rest of the school year.
Features & Benefits: Book #1 in a new middle grade fiction series for tween girlsBullying is "the" topic of awareness in schools and the mediaSeries will tell the story in three different perspectives: the bully, the victim, and the bystander"So Not Okay" tells the story of the bystander, a role in which many tweens find themselves.
304 pages, Paperback
First published May 13, 2014
11 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Nancy N. Rue
224 books289 followersNancy Rue is the author of over 100 books for adults and teens, including the Christy Award-winning The Reluctant Prophet, Unexpected Dismounts and Healing Waters (with Steve Arterburn), which was the 2009 Women of Faith Novel of the Year. She travels extensively—at times on the back of a Harley—speaking to and teaching groups of women of all ages. Nancy lives on a lake in Tennessee with her Harley-ridin’ husband, Jim, and their two yellow Labs (without whom writing would be difficult).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 26, 2015
I'm trying to read outside my favorite children's genres a little more in order to boost my readers' advisory skills in areas where they're lacking, and one of those is inspirational materials. Though we don't get a ton of requests for these at my library, they do pop up every so often and I think it's important to be familiar with them.
So Not Okay tells the story of Tori, a sixth-grader who is beginning to see bullying problems in her school. At first, rich mean girl Kylie picks on Tori and her friends, but when new girl Ginger comes to school, Kylie moves her focus to Ginger. With unwashed hair, unfashionable clothes, and a loud voice, Ginger is an easy target and not the kind of person that anyone wants to be friends with. When a human behavior assignment in science leaves Ginger without a group to work with, Tori reluctantly allows her to join the group she's formed with three friends. As Kylie's bullying progresses, Tori's group decides to study why some people are so mean. This group project forms the backbone of the story afterwards as Tori, Ginger, and friends try to figure out the best way to stop being the target of the "Wolf Pack."
The religious content in this book is pretty light; until the final third of the book, the only hints that this could be an inspirational book are mentions of going to church. Not until the girls' mentor Lydia (who is a little person for some reason? I guess to give her something to overcome and a justification for her faith?) starts talking about prayer to Tori do we see that this is a Christian book, and even then it's pretty light and easily skipped if you don't care for that kind of thing.
The good about this book: it's very readable, the kind of thing that kids in the target age would definitely pick up on their own and enjoy. If you're familiar with the Beacon Street Girls or the Cupcake Diaries, it's sort of similar to those books. Chatty, written in the first person, and including the kinds of little details that kids crave - favorite foods, the kinds of houses the girls live in, etc.
The not so good about this book... oy. Though the book wasn't preachy in the religious sense, it really really was in the anti-bullying sense. It felt like the author was trying to write a "how to deal with bullies 101" guidebook, and believe me, kids pick up on that and do not like it. I also didn't like how every single girl was just a stock character: Ophelia, with her Shakespearean name, is the Dramatic One; Winnie is whiny and shy; Tori is smart; Kylie is the alpha mean girl who has more money than she knows what to do with and an equally mean mom... I mean, come on! I'm not saying every book about bullying needs to be Wonder-level great, but at least put some effort into your characters.
The final thing that bugged me about this book (and I'm saying this as someone who was the weird kid in middle school) is that a lot of the bullying that teachers let slide just pushed credulity way too far. At one point, Kylie and friends stuff Tori into a locker and try to make it look like they did it as self-defense, and a teacher almost buys it. I mean, come on! Adults aren't so stupid that they can't see what's going on in front of them!
Overall, I'll recommend this to parents looking for an inspirational book for their child, but I can't say it's one I'd recommend in general. It was perfectly fine and it will find its fans, but there are better fiction books about bullying out there.
So Not Okay tells the story of Tori, a sixth-grader who is beginning to see bullying problems in her school. At first, rich mean girl Kylie picks on Tori and her friends, but when new girl Ginger comes to school, Kylie moves her focus to Ginger. With unwashed hair, unfashionable clothes, and a loud voice, Ginger is an easy target and not the kind of person that anyone wants to be friends with. When a human behavior assignment in science leaves Ginger without a group to work with, Tori reluctantly allows her to join the group she's formed with three friends. As Kylie's bullying progresses, Tori's group decides to study why some people are so mean. This group project forms the backbone of the story afterwards as Tori, Ginger, and friends try to figure out the best way to stop being the target of the "Wolf Pack."
The religious content in this book is pretty light; until the final third of the book, the only hints that this could be an inspirational book are mentions of going to church. Not until the girls' mentor Lydia (who is a little person for some reason? I guess to give her something to overcome and a justification for her faith?) starts talking about prayer to Tori do we see that this is a Christian book, and even then it's pretty light and easily skipped if you don't care for that kind of thing.
The good about this book: it's very readable, the kind of thing that kids in the target age would definitely pick up on their own and enjoy. If you're familiar with the Beacon Street Girls or the Cupcake Diaries, it's sort of similar to those books. Chatty, written in the first person, and including the kinds of little details that kids crave - favorite foods, the kinds of houses the girls live in, etc.
The not so good about this book... oy. Though the book wasn't preachy in the religious sense, it really really was in the anti-bullying sense. It felt like the author was trying to write a "how to deal with bullies 101" guidebook, and believe me, kids pick up on that and do not like it. I also didn't like how every single girl was just a stock character: Ophelia, with her Shakespearean name, is the Dramatic One; Winnie is whiny and shy; Tori is smart; Kylie is the alpha mean girl who has more money than she knows what to do with and an equally mean mom... I mean, come on! I'm not saying every book about bullying needs to be Wonder-level great, but at least put some effort into your characters.
The final thing that bugged me about this book (and I'm saying this as someone who was the weird kid in middle school) is that a lot of the bullying that teachers let slide just pushed credulity way too far. At one point, Kylie and friends stuff Tori into a locker and try to make it look like they did it as self-defense, and a teacher almost buys it. I mean, come on! Adults aren't so stupid that they can't see what's going on in front of them!
Overall, I'll recommend this to parents looking for an inspirational book for their child, but I can't say it's one I'd recommend in general. It was perfectly fine and it will find its fans, but there are better fiction books about bullying out there.
April 7, 2014
About the Book:
There is no such thing as neutral.
According to the Ambassadors 4 Kids Club, one out of every four students is bullied--and 85% of these situations never receive intervention. Parents, students, and teachers alike have amped up the discussion of how to solve the bullying problem for a networked generation of kids.
Written by bestselling author, Nancy Rue, each book in the Mean Girl Makeover trilogy focuses on a different character's point of view: the bully, the victim, and the bystander. Each girl has a different personality so that every reader can find a character she relates to. The books, based on Scripture, show solid biblical solutions to the bullying problem set in a story for kids.
"So Not Okay "tells the story of Tori Taylor, a quiet sixth grader at Gold Country Middle School in Grass Valley, California. Tori knows to stay out of the way of Kylie, the queen bee of GCMS. When an awkward new student named Ginger becomes Kylie's new target, Tori whispers a prayer of thanks that it's not her. But as Kylie's bullying of Ginger continues to build, Tori feels guilty and tries to be kind to Ginger. Pretty soon, the bullying line of fire directed toward Ginger starts deflecting onto Tori, who must decide if she and her friends can befriend Ginger and withstand Kylie's taunts, or do nothing and resume their status quo. Tori's decision dramatically changes her trajectory for the rest of the school year.
About the Author:
Nancy Rue is the bestselling author of more than 100 books for teens, tweens, and adults, two of which have won Christy Awards. Nancy is also a popular speaker and radio guest due to her expertise in tween and teen issues. She and her husband, Jim, have raised a daughter of their own and now share their Tennessee lake home with two yellow labs.
My Review:
Along with the advancement of technology, there has been another growing trend---"bullying". It is no longer just happening on the school playground it can be anywhere. School, work, church you name it and I guarantee that some form of bullying is taking place. Even online, the statistics keep growing for the youth of our society to use online media for a way to bully their peers. Even laws as of late have been changed to address the issue. Let's face it, this senseless trend is every way these days.
Bestselling author Nancy Rue has decided through her writing to address the issue. She has created a trilogy that will give this outlandish subject a voice and the way she has chosen to do it is very unique. She has given us three different views--one for the victim, one for the bully, and one for the bystander. All books are based on scripture and show our youth how to handle this demon, God's way.
The first book in the trilogy is entitled, So Not Okay:Mean Girl Makeover, and in it we find the story of Tory Taylor. She is a sixth grader that is just grateful to God that she is not the one being bullied. When she starts to feel a twinge of guilt by standing by and letting it happen to Ginger, a new student at her school. As I'm reading the book, I was thinking where are the adults in this situation. As this trilogy continues, it will be exciting to see how God changes the lives of each of these girls so that they each see the role that they play in the whole scenario.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
There is no such thing as neutral.
According to the Ambassadors 4 Kids Club, one out of every four students is bullied--and 85% of these situations never receive intervention. Parents, students, and teachers alike have amped up the discussion of how to solve the bullying problem for a networked generation of kids.
Written by bestselling author, Nancy Rue, each book in the Mean Girl Makeover trilogy focuses on a different character's point of view: the bully, the victim, and the bystander. Each girl has a different personality so that every reader can find a character she relates to. The books, based on Scripture, show solid biblical solutions to the bullying problem set in a story for kids.
"So Not Okay "tells the story of Tori Taylor, a quiet sixth grader at Gold Country Middle School in Grass Valley, California. Tori knows to stay out of the way of Kylie, the queen bee of GCMS. When an awkward new student named Ginger becomes Kylie's new target, Tori whispers a prayer of thanks that it's not her. But as Kylie's bullying of Ginger continues to build, Tori feels guilty and tries to be kind to Ginger. Pretty soon, the bullying line of fire directed toward Ginger starts deflecting onto Tori, who must decide if she and her friends can befriend Ginger and withstand Kylie's taunts, or do nothing and resume their status quo. Tori's decision dramatically changes her trajectory for the rest of the school year.
About the Author:
Nancy Rue is the bestselling author of more than 100 books for teens, tweens, and adults, two of which have won Christy Awards. Nancy is also a popular speaker and radio guest due to her expertise in tween and teen issues. She and her husband, Jim, have raised a daughter of their own and now share their Tennessee lake home with two yellow labs.
My Review:
Along with the advancement of technology, there has been another growing trend---"bullying". It is no longer just happening on the school playground it can be anywhere. School, work, church you name it and I guarantee that some form of bullying is taking place. Even online, the statistics keep growing for the youth of our society to use online media for a way to bully their peers. Even laws as of late have been changed to address the issue. Let's face it, this senseless trend is every way these days.
Bestselling author Nancy Rue has decided through her writing to address the issue. She has created a trilogy that will give this outlandish subject a voice and the way she has chosen to do it is very unique. She has given us three different views--one for the victim, one for the bully, and one for the bystander. All books are based on scripture and show our youth how to handle this demon, God's way.
The first book in the trilogy is entitled, So Not Okay:Mean Girl Makeover, and in it we find the story of Tory Taylor. She is a sixth grader that is just grateful to God that she is not the one being bullied. When she starts to feel a twinge of guilt by standing by and letting it happen to Ginger, a new student at her school. As I'm reading the book, I was thinking where are the adults in this situation. As this trilogy continues, it will be exciting to see how God changes the lives of each of these girls so that they each see the role that they play in the whole scenario.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
June 6, 2016
A book about a girl trying to stop bullying at her school. Very fun to read. The characters are very interesting and understanding. Loved it! Sofia Marie recommended it to me before. Two other books in series! Yay!
August 20, 2017
What a great book! My son was being bullied and I listened to a podcast on bullying with the author, where she mentioned this book. I read it to my 12 year old daughter. We couldn't put it down. Great tips about dealing with bullies.
April 30, 2018
This book was very enlightening on how we should all help stop bullying. I also really liked the storyline. I would like a mentor like the one who helps the "tribelet" in this story. Recommended for girls ages 8+. This book is a must-read for all middle school girls!
May 8, 2014
I am beyond thankful and appreciative that Nancy Rue took the time to write this novel! I teach a group of elementary girls every Wednesday night at my church and each one of them said they had been bullied! It was very eye-opening to read SO Not Okay and have a better understanding of what my girls have gone through! Talk about heart-breaking!
SO Not Okay hit on so many topics concerning bullying that not only will it leave people aware of how it happens, but what the "victim" can do! I actually plan to print out the same code that the girls used in the book for my own girls! What makes the code even cooler is that all of them are based on the Bible!
The novel itself was a great read, but it was also very hard to read through as well. I have never personally been bullied and seeing the effects of bullying on Tori and her peers was hard to cope with. As a parent and teacher I don't want to be a random bystander, but want my kids and "students" to know they can come to me as a trusted adult. After reading I also have a better understanding of helping my children understand in how not to be a bystander as well.
Overall, I highly recommend this novel to tweens you are getting bullied and even parents/teachers/family members who want an "inside scoop" of what their child or someone else is going through as well as how to handle it! As Nancy points out through this entire novel that by sitting back and doing nothing we are just like the bully, but God can give these children and parents the strength to make a bold stand for Him!
I give SO Not Okay a 5 out of 5 stars (definitely in my top 10 reads of this year!)!
*(I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review!)*
SO Not Okay hit on so many topics concerning bullying that not only will it leave people aware of how it happens, but what the "victim" can do! I actually plan to print out the same code that the girls used in the book for my own girls! What makes the code even cooler is that all of them are based on the Bible!
The novel itself was a great read, but it was also very hard to read through as well. I have never personally been bullied and seeing the effects of bullying on Tori and her peers was hard to cope with. As a parent and teacher I don't want to be a random bystander, but want my kids and "students" to know they can come to me as a trusted adult. After reading I also have a better understanding of helping my children understand in how not to be a bystander as well.
Overall, I highly recommend this novel to tweens you are getting bullied and even parents/teachers/family members who want an "inside scoop" of what their child or someone else is going through as well as how to handle it! As Nancy points out through this entire novel that by sitting back and doing nothing we are just like the bully, but God can give these children and parents the strength to make a bold stand for Him!
I give SO Not Okay a 5 out of 5 stars (definitely in my top 10 reads of this year!)!
*(I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review!)*
June 27, 2016
The Pack was there before. That wasn't what had changed. It was just that Tori had never been their target before.
Kylie and her friends- the Pack, as Tori calls them - are the girls in sixth grade who decide what's cool. And apparently the new girl Ginger is not. Will it just "go away", as some people say, or should Tori do something? And if she will - what will it cost her?
Bullying isn't a joke. It's real and it's out there. So Not Okay deals more with the word-bullying than the hit-and-punch bullying. The type of bullying that leaves you feeling like a looser and a nerd. The type that calls a girl "gingerbread" of doesn't let her go to her locker or laughs when she reads her essay. The type that's hard to pin point and that's easy to miss for the adults. But is still there.
So Not Okay is Nancy Rue's first book in the anti-bullying series. It is told from the bystander's point of view. Tori learns that there is no such thing as "neutral" and that something can-and should- be done. There is also discussion on WHAT can be done.
If you want some great fiction with an even greater message, you just might enjoy this book. The second one -You Can't Sit With Us- is told from the bullied girl's point of view and the last one from the bully's point-of-view.
~Review written by Sofia Marie of the Teens Live for Jesus blog~
Kylie and her friends- the Pack, as Tori calls them - are the girls in sixth grade who decide what's cool. And apparently the new girl Ginger is not. Will it just "go away", as some people say, or should Tori do something? And if she will - what will it cost her?
Bullying isn't a joke. It's real and it's out there. So Not Okay deals more with the word-bullying than the hit-and-punch bullying. The type of bullying that leaves you feeling like a looser and a nerd. The type that calls a girl "gingerbread" of doesn't let her go to her locker or laughs when she reads her essay. The type that's hard to pin point and that's easy to miss for the adults. But is still there.
So Not Okay is Nancy Rue's first book in the anti-bullying series. It is told from the bystander's point of view. Tori learns that there is no such thing as "neutral" and that something can-and should- be done. There is also discussion on WHAT can be done.
If you want some great fiction with an even greater message, you just might enjoy this book. The second one -You Can't Sit With Us- is told from the bullied girl's point of view and the last one from the bully's point-of-view.
~Review written by Sofia Marie of the Teens Live for Jesus blog~
Read
April 29, 2015I liked this story about bullying. It was an interesting storyline, and although it was clearly a fictional approach to teaching, it didn't feel preachy. Helpful information was presented in a natural way that fit the storyline. It's a Christian book, but the Christian part is subtle. The mentor character who helps the girls work through their problem tells them she's got Bible verses and principles that go with each step of responding to bullies, but those Bible verses aren't written anywhere that I can find. I even checked on Nancy Rue's website, but although she's got helpful printouts, those Bible verses aren't there. This is a fantastic book for a discussion group, or just to open discussion between parents and their children.
November 1, 2025
So Not Okay by Nancy Rue
Rating: 3.7-4 🆗🆗🆗🆗
Thoughts:
I knew this was about middle schoolers; but the way they acted... .I literally could not wrap m6 head around the fact that eleven year olds were doing this! I mean when I was eleven... sure I could see them doing stuff like that because I was the same age, but now? I just can't.
But, aside from that, this was a really good book that stands against bullying and shows how much it can hurt and change you.
I really liked how Lydia stepped up to help the girls and how she had become a close friend within a few days. And how she became a support for Tori while her mom was busy. Also how it portrayed Tori's mom-- she was busy and couldn't be there for Tori but the moment she could she makes a point to talk and listen and guide.
The way the bullies attack and hurt anyone they can really made me upset... how can you act like that? How?
All that said this was a really good book, well written, unique characters, really good story line.
Favorite character, part, quote.
Character: Michelle (Mitch) -- I love the characters who are quiter because one) that's me and two) they tend to see a lot more. (Lydia would be my second favorite because of how she mentored the girls)
Part: when Mr. V comes to the rescue and shows all the other teachers what's been going on.
Quote: I didn't make a point to find a quote in this book...
Bible Verse
Jeremiah 29:13 KJV
[13] And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
Content List
Language/Profanity:
Jeepers
A mention of someone maybe saying a bad word.
Faith:
Praying (Not a ton honestly)
Talking about God
Mention of the Bible
Going to church
Putting the Good Samaritan Bible Parable into action
Romance/Sex:
NA
Violence ect.:
Getting shoved into a locker.
Bullying
Other:
The grandmother goes behind Tori's parents backs and told her a story the parents didn't want her to hear yet.
Part of a Series:
Book one of a three book series called Mean Girl Makeover
Synopsis:
"So Not Okay "tells the story of Tori Taylor, a quiet sixth grader at Gold Country Middle School in Grass Valley, California. Tori knows to stay out of the way of Kylie, the queen bee of GCMS. When an awkward new student named Ginger becomes Kylie's new target, Tori whispers a prayer of thanks that it's not her. But as Kylie's bullying of Ginger continues to build, Tori feels guilty and tries to be kind to Ginger. Pretty soon, the bullying line of fire directed toward Ginger starts deflecting onto Tori, who must decide if she and her friends can befriend Ginger and withstand Kylie's taunts, or do nothing and resume their status quo. Tori's decision dramatically changes her trajectory for the rest of the school year.
Rating: 3.7-4 🆗🆗🆗🆗
Thoughts:
I knew this was about middle schoolers; but the way they acted... .I literally could not wrap m6 head around the fact that eleven year olds were doing this! I mean when I was eleven... sure I could see them doing stuff like that because I was the same age, but now? I just can't.
But, aside from that, this was a really good book that stands against bullying and shows how much it can hurt and change you.
I really liked how Lydia stepped up to help the girls and how she had become a close friend within a few days. And how she became a support for Tori while her mom was busy. Also how it portrayed Tori's mom-- she was busy and couldn't be there for Tori but the moment she could she makes a point to talk and listen and guide.
The way the bullies attack and hurt anyone they can really made me upset... how can you act like that? How?
All that said this was a really good book, well written, unique characters, really good story line.
Favorite character, part, quote.
Character: Michelle (Mitch) -- I love the characters who are quiter because one) that's me and two) they tend to see a lot more. (Lydia would be my second favorite because of how she mentored the girls)
Part: when Mr. V comes to the rescue and shows all the other teachers what's been going on.
Quote: I didn't make a point to find a quote in this book...
Bible Verse
Jeremiah 29:13 KJV
[13] And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
Content List
Language/Profanity:
Jeepers
A mention of someone maybe saying a bad word.
Faith:
Praying (Not a ton honestly)
Talking about God
Mention of the Bible
Going to church
Putting the Good Samaritan Bible Parable into action
Romance/Sex:
NA
Violence ect.:
Getting shoved into a locker.
Bullying
Other:
The grandmother goes behind Tori's parents backs and told her a story the parents didn't want her to hear yet.
Part of a Series:
Book one of a three book series called Mean Girl Makeover
Synopsis:
"So Not Okay "tells the story of Tori Taylor, a quiet sixth grader at Gold Country Middle School in Grass Valley, California. Tori knows to stay out of the way of Kylie, the queen bee of GCMS. When an awkward new student named Ginger becomes Kylie's new target, Tori whispers a prayer of thanks that it's not her. But as Kylie's bullying of Ginger continues to build, Tori feels guilty and tries to be kind to Ginger. Pretty soon, the bullying line of fire directed toward Ginger starts deflecting onto Tori, who must decide if she and her friends can befriend Ginger and withstand Kylie's taunts, or do nothing and resume their status quo. Tori's decision dramatically changes her trajectory for the rest of the school year.
September 25, 2014
Before I get to this great book, I wanted to add my own personal thoughts on bullying. I was bullied throughout my elementary years in PRIVATE schools and even in the older years by not so nice friends of mine in middle school (public school by then). I was also a bully to kids around me when I decided I’d had enough being picked on. That’s not something I admit lightly, but it’s true. Some of it I could have avoided and I’m definitely ashamed on the meanness I bestowed on others without reason. I never forgot what it was like to be made fun enough/rejected/excluded/laughed at/threatened but I didn’t have the maturity to walk away or stand up for myself. I was finally counseled in church and by God to release the pent up anger I had and be healed of those memories, to forgive myself and others who had disrespected me. With God’s love, I was finally able to overcome these insecurities.
I. CAN’T. STAND. BULLIES. (even though I myself was one at times when younger) but I can honestly say I’ve been on both sides of this issue and it’s still a problem today. Kids of all ages need to know they’re not alone in this, that God loves them no matter what, and that it’s okay to take a stand. Each of us was picked on at some point growing up, but we can pray for our kids today, discuss the matter with them, and let them know we support them/they can trust us, the adults in their lives. I jumped at the chance to be part of Nancy Rue’s Mean Girl Makeover Series and I’m honored to have the chance to review this book. The statistics on bullying have gotten worse and scarier over the years, but it’s never too late to take steps. It’s time to show bullies of all ages that this will not be tolerated anymore.
It’s SO NOT OKAY to disrespect kids, make fun of kids, abuse kids, threaten kids, yell at them, ignore what’s bothering a child, or mistreat them in any way. It’s time to show kids how much they are loved, by their families and by God himself. Thanks for reading this and I pray you’re encouraged by it!
My Comments
This is my first time reading Nancy Rue, but it won’t be my last! The story started kind of slow in getting my attention, but once it got going I was HOOKED. I truly love that this book is from the perspective of Victoria, “Tori” Taylor. She’s what I would consider the bystander in this book, but her heart is absolutely amazing and wow, is she smart?!
It’s 6th grade and the rules have been the same since elementary school, stay out of The Pack’s way and you won’t be bothered.
The pack consists of leader Kylie, the leader and nicknamed “The Alpha Wolf” (which I thought was utterly clever and even fitting to her character)
And her friends: Riannon, Izzy, Heidi, and Shelby.
Tori and her best friends, Ophelia “Phee” and Winnie work have lots of classes together, work together, and support one another through everything. That all changes when the new girl arrives. Ginger’s presence changes the ENTIRE dynamics of the school when everyone knows to stay away from The Pack. She tries to befriend them with disastrous results.
Tori notices what’s going on and it sickens her. Then one day they’re all in class together and Tori stands up for the new girl, which has very unexpected results. Tori invites Ginger into their group for a class project and the more they research the project, the more trouble brews against them.
All I can really say about this book is…..WOW. I simply loved how Tori reacted and how she felt compelled to take a stand even though the odds were against her the whole time.
What I loved about this book: Lydia, Tori’s dad’s assistant, sitting with the girls while working on their project and the conversations they have together (those were the best scenes!)
How the girls become the Tribelet and work together to defend Ginger
Tori’s grandmother and the precious relationship they share
How Tori wages war on bullying, NOT the bullies
The way justice comes about
The biggest problem I had about this book (other than the insane unfairness of the bullying) was the mistreatment of Ophelia against Tori. Phee becomes a total brat and continues to give Tori ultimatums. I understood her fear and it was obvious she suffered from her decision, but being neutral and pretending there isn’t a problem DOES NOT make it go away.
Some of the tactics The Pack uses in the story took my breath away in disbelief. Guys are also bullies, but girls are just so CRUEL!! The lengths they went to in order to discourage and gang up on Tori and her friends was completely uncalled for. And none of the teachers noticing? I never experienced anything like that in middle school, but seeing their situation had me cheering harder for Tori. Kylie doesn’t realize she’s mean?! Goodness, that had my eyes go wide.
Tori’s courage and determination is also unbelievable in a good way. Wow, that girl had my attention all the way as she continues to help her friends do the right thing. I was so proud of her and amazed by her strength. Every method she applies turned out to be Biblical, but there was no preaching in the story at all. There is one scene in church with Tori and her family, but it had me laughing.
This story is UTTERLY touching and it offers such wonderful advice to tweens on how to handle peer pressure, fitting in, doing the right thing, and responding the right way to unfairness in school. I laughed, I cried, and I cheered for these girls and just LOOOOVED how it ended!! I highly recommend this book and this series for kids aged preteen to high school. It gives hope and shows that you’re not alone when facing a bully, no matter what age you are.
I want to thank the author and Thomas Nelson for sending me a review copy. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
**I listed famous bullies that I considered from movies I loved in this review. Please feel free to comment with bullies you remember from books or movies.**
Tori is considered the leader of her group and she’s the one who exerts the most courage when having a show down with the other bullies
Ophelia is the one who can only see her side of the issue and believes if she stays invisible the problem will eventually go away
Winnie is the most timid of the three, but she’s also loyal to her friends. She wants to stay invisible, but she knows this won’t help the problem so she does help out
Mitch is considered an indie of the group, but she also wants to do the right thing despite the risks involved. Mitch is also loyal and willing to do what it takes to stop the problem
Ginger is the target, but she joins these girls in doing the right thing and is even willing to take on the pranks by herself
Which one of these characters would you most relate to? I would love to say Tori, but I think I’m more like Mitch. Doing the right thing is risky, but it’s worth it in the end.
Code for Respecting the Dignity of Every Human Being
Bullying is not a normal part of growing up. It's wrong, and we're not having it at our school anymore. Please sign this pledge to be part of making this a safe place to be.
I will not do any of the following things.
I will help anyone who is being treated in any of these ways.
If I'm being treated in any of these ways, I'll get help from a friend or an adult.
**please get the book to learn more about this pledge, wonderfully done**
April 20, 2024
This wasn’t my first time reading this book. It might only be the second time reading the whole book but I’ve definitely reread parts in between the first time I read it and this time reading it. Having read all the books in the series it’s going to be hard to talk about this book without at least referencing the other books, but I will try.
One thing I liked about this book even as an adult is the characters. I think my favourites are Ginger and Ophelia. Ginger doesn’t act like your typical new girl and I love that. Unfortunately her light is kind of dimmed because of others’ treatment of her, but through her new friends her light isn’t completely lost. I love how Ophelia’s character was written and that it shows that meanness can come in different ways. Though I do wish the actual bullies were written a little better. Some of the things they would say in response to being told that they were bullies had me like “I don’t know if someone would say that.” This doesn’t exactly fit what I just said but they say in the book something along the lines of “we’re not mean, we’re just honest” that I guess explains the things they say but it doesn’t explain some of the other things they do.
I’m not sure if the writing is that great, I mean I don’t think it’s bad but I can see how someone could think it is, but writing is not my area of expertise.
One thing that kind of bothers me, and I’m probably going to get some people mad but hear me out is that Lydia keeps talking about how the girls need to “take back the power to be themselves” it sounds good, but what exactly does that mean? Because as Tori would say: A) you can’t really be anyone other than yourself and B) it could be used as a way to justify sin or avoid growth. I don’t think that’s Nancy Rue’s intention and I don’t know how that clarity would be incorporated into the book but I was a little bothered by that. Another thing that is kind of related is Lydia saying that everything she taught the girls was from the Bible, but no scriptures are cited. I think I know what scriptures she’s talking about but the fact that they’re not cited bothers me a little.
Overall I enjoyed this but I have a few issues with it.
One thing I liked about this book even as an adult is the characters. I think my favourites are Ginger and Ophelia. Ginger doesn’t act like your typical new girl and I love that. Unfortunately her light is kind of dimmed because of others’ treatment of her, but through her new friends her light isn’t completely lost. I love how Ophelia’s character was written and that it shows that meanness can come in different ways. Though I do wish the actual bullies were written a little better. Some of the things they would say in response to being told that they were bullies had me like “I don’t know if someone would say that.” This doesn’t exactly fit what I just said but they say in the book something along the lines of “we’re not mean, we’re just honest” that I guess explains the things they say but it doesn’t explain some of the other things they do.
I’m not sure if the writing is that great, I mean I don’t think it’s bad but I can see how someone could think it is, but writing is not my area of expertise.
One thing that kind of bothers me, and I’m probably going to get some people mad but hear me out is that Lydia keeps talking about how the girls need to “take back the power to be themselves” it sounds good, but what exactly does that mean? Because as Tori would say: A) you can’t really be anyone other than yourself and B) it could be used as a way to justify sin or avoid growth. I don’t think that’s Nancy Rue’s intention and I don’t know how that clarity would be incorporated into the book but I was a little bothered by that. Another thing that is kind of related is Lydia saying that everything she taught the girls was from the Bible, but no scriptures are cited. I think I know what scriptures she’s talking about but the fact that they’re not cited bothers me a little.
Overall I enjoyed this but I have a few issues with it.
February 8, 2021
This book is AMAZING...!!! It took a little bit to get into the first bit because it was difficult to work out who was who, a lot of character flipping around. BUT 100% well worth the read. I read this with my daughter and it has a lot of wisdom and kindness about how to handle bullies. LOVED!!! We are on to the 2nd one now and both my daughter and I are on the edge of our seats waiting to find out what happens next.
February 20, 2022
Very interesting book. There’s three books in this series- this one is the bystander’s pov, second is the victim’s pov, and the last is the bully’s pov. The third one is my fav. I loved all of these books and they were very easy to understand and even relate to. I read them a couple years ago and the reason it’s 4.5 stars and not 5 is because while they were good, they weren’t extremely memorable. MAYBE ITS JUST ME IDK OK BYE
January 22, 2019
The first in a must-read trilogy (Mean Girl Makeover)
Parents, teachers, and middle school girls will gain new insights about bullying in these fast-paced, entertaining novels with believable, compelling characters. This first in the series traces the main character Tori's growth from bystander to courageous leader and friend.
Parents, teachers, and middle school girls will gain new insights about bullying in these fast-paced, entertaining novels with believable, compelling characters. This first in the series traces the main character Tori's growth from bystander to courageous leader and friend.
August 15, 2017
This series is one of my favorite book series. it is an honest look at bullying from three different perspectives. this book is from the perspective of a a bystander. it shows how she feels about the way a girl was being treated at her school. I recommend this book for all readers.
December 14, 2020
Great book for middle school kids facing insecurities about bullying.
September 27, 2022
So Not Okay follows Victoria (Tory) through what it's like to watch someone be bullied. The story provides another dimension when Tory tries to do the right thing and seems to lose her best friend in the process. The idea that bullying has always been around isn't new--but just because something exists doesn't make it right. Adults and young people could benefit from reading So Not Okay. Chalking up the struggles of pre-teens as just "drama" isn't always helpful to the hurting kids involved.
March 26, 2015
A strong starting point for opening up discussions about battling bullies. I found this to be an easy to read, relatable story that I'm sure will help many middle-grade age children feel more comfortable talking about bullying and how to effectively battle against it.
For a few years now, Tori and her group of friends have been the main target of popular girl Kylie and her clique. When new girl Ginger (real name Virginia Eve) transfers to Tori's school, at first Tori and her friends feel relief. Ginger proves to be so socially inept that it takes the heat off of Tori and her friends for a time. Ginger (and of course Rue makes the girl a redhead!) doesn't have the cool clothes, she eats pickle and PB sandwiches at lunch, she struggles to control her body odor and she tends to yell things as she's talking even when she doesn't mean to -- but the thing about Ginger is she still tries to make friends, she tries to put herself out there, even if she's bound to get shot down and have her heart broken.
Tori witnesses Ginger suffering bullying at the hands of Kylie and Co., thinks maybe she should help Ginger out. Tori's friends say "heck no! that'd just put the heat back on us!" so Tori goes along with what her friends want until she just can't stand the feelings of guilt anymore. Though it does put her and her friends back on Kylie's radar, Tori invites Ginger to join their circle, convinced she is doing what is right. Tori and the girls then learn how to combat bullying via Lydia, the assistant of Tori's father. Lydia has battled bullying all of her life because of her dwarfism, so she has a tip or two to teach them -- one rule being to become a "tribelet", finding strength in numbers and being able to divide and conquer the bullies when they aren't in a grouping of their own.
Along with the tribelet lesson, there are many more that young readers can take away from this book to put into effect into their own school situations. Another element I really appreciated about this story was the fact that it addressed the reality that bullying can come from numerous different sources, sometimes that source being our closest friends. We don't want to think it's bullying when it's someone so close to us but it can happen. This story helps identify what different kinds of bullying can look like. I also liked that it got into pointing out how oblivious to the situation parents and teachers can be; how teachers can side with the popular kids just because the teachers too find the bullied kids "weird" and somehow justify their inaction with "the kid brought it on himself / herself by being weird"; how adults can still experience bullying in the workplace (case in point, Tori's dad's fears that he could lose a big contract -- which means a loss of much needed household income -- at work if he doesn't "play by the rules") and how even teachers themselves can be the bullies.
While I didn't find the plot in this first book particularly riveting, I do think it brings up a lot of good starter points for discussion. I've already read the second book and can tell you that it's worth it to try out this trilogy. As an adult, I found reading the second book, which is told from Ginger's POV, really brought to light a lot of commonalities between Ginger's story and my own school experiences, making it more impactful (at least to me) than the first book.
Rue definitely brings up a lot of important points to shed light on within the topic of bullying, so I highly recommend this trilogy as a strong starting point with your child.
For a few years now, Tori and her group of friends have been the main target of popular girl Kylie and her clique. When new girl Ginger (real name Virginia Eve) transfers to Tori's school, at first Tori and her friends feel relief. Ginger proves to be so socially inept that it takes the heat off of Tori and her friends for a time. Ginger (and of course Rue makes the girl a redhead!) doesn't have the cool clothes, she eats pickle and PB sandwiches at lunch, she struggles to control her body odor and she tends to yell things as she's talking even when she doesn't mean to -- but the thing about Ginger is she still tries to make friends, she tries to put herself out there, even if she's bound to get shot down and have her heart broken.
Tori witnesses Ginger suffering bullying at the hands of Kylie and Co., thinks maybe she should help Ginger out. Tori's friends say "heck no! that'd just put the heat back on us!" so Tori goes along with what her friends want until she just can't stand the feelings of guilt anymore. Though it does put her and her friends back on Kylie's radar, Tori invites Ginger to join their circle, convinced she is doing what is right. Tori and the girls then learn how to combat bullying via Lydia, the assistant of Tori's father. Lydia has battled bullying all of her life because of her dwarfism, so she has a tip or two to teach them -- one rule being to become a "tribelet", finding strength in numbers and being able to divide and conquer the bullies when they aren't in a grouping of their own.
Along with the tribelet lesson, there are many more that young readers can take away from this book to put into effect into their own school situations. Another element I really appreciated about this story was the fact that it addressed the reality that bullying can come from numerous different sources, sometimes that source being our closest friends. We don't want to think it's bullying when it's someone so close to us but it can happen. This story helps identify what different kinds of bullying can look like. I also liked that it got into pointing out how oblivious to the situation parents and teachers can be; how teachers can side with the popular kids just because the teachers too find the bullied kids "weird" and somehow justify their inaction with "the kid brought it on himself / herself by being weird"; how adults can still experience bullying in the workplace (case in point, Tori's dad's fears that he could lose a big contract -- which means a loss of much needed household income -- at work if he doesn't "play by the rules") and how even teachers themselves can be the bullies.
While I didn't find the plot in this first book particularly riveting, I do think it brings up a lot of good starter points for discussion. I've already read the second book and can tell you that it's worth it to try out this trilogy. As an adult, I found reading the second book, which is told from Ginger's POV, really brought to light a lot of commonalities between Ginger's story and my own school experiences, making it more impactful (at least to me) than the first book.
Rue definitely brings up a lot of important points to shed light on within the topic of bullying, so I highly recommend this trilogy as a strong starting point with your child.
May 19, 2015
This is the first book in the trilogy, and I'd already read the third one so I knew who the villains were already. The third is from Kylie's POV, and I have to say I didn't enjoy this book as much as I did that third one! This is from Tori's POV as she watches new girl Ginger get bullied by Kylie and her posse, who expand their efforts to Tori's "tribelet" when Tori starts to include Ginger in things.
I have to say, as bitchy as she is I just found Kylie to be the more interesting character to read about - and in the third book she's not the bully that she was here anymore, she's now the victim. Tori I didn't really love or hate; she was a mix of quirky and plain, but not really enough of either.
I also didn't really care much for Ginger from the start, horrible as that sounds as she's the victim! But it felt like her character was just a bit too much in every way - chubby, greasy hair, bad breath, talks too loud, no social graces, etc. It felt like she was being written as she stereotype of all girls the pretty, popular crowd would pick on, you know? I would have liked to have seen her just simply be new, to kinda show I guess that anyone can be bullied, there doesn't need to be anything wrong with them. I would have liked it if we'd found out that all those 'wrong' things about her were just things Kylie's gang said, not actually true.
Interesting story idea, a tale of bullying told from neither the bully nor the original victim's POV. Phee especially was a good example of how just being "neutral" is sometimes as bad as being the bully itself. When you're that close to the action, it's very black or white I think - you have to take a side.
Also for personal reasons I still can't condone Kylie's group being called the wolf pack :P
I have to say, as bitchy as she is I just found Kylie to be the more interesting character to read about - and in the third book she's not the bully that she was here anymore, she's now the victim. Tori I didn't really love or hate; she was a mix of quirky and plain, but not really enough of either.
I also didn't really care much for Ginger from the start, horrible as that sounds as she's the victim! But it felt like her character was just a bit too much in every way - chubby, greasy hair, bad breath, talks too loud, no social graces, etc. It felt like she was being written as she stereotype of all girls the pretty, popular crowd would pick on, you know? I would have liked to have seen her just simply be new, to kinda show I guess that anyone can be bullied, there doesn't need to be anything wrong with them. I would have liked it if we'd found out that all those 'wrong' things about her were just things Kylie's gang said, not actually true.
Interesting story idea, a tale of bullying told from neither the bully nor the original victim's POV. Phee especially was a good example of how just being "neutral" is sometimes as bad as being the bully itself. When you're that close to the action, it's very black or white I think - you have to take a side.
Also for personal reasons I still can't condone Kylie's group being called the wolf pack :P
May 16, 2014
If you are living and breathing then you've probably encountered bullying in some way. The time has come for us to begin to fight back against the mean girls!
Nancy Rue has written an amazing trilogy that addresses the topic of bullying in a unique way. Each of the three books will look at the topic of buyllying from a different perspective. The first book So Not Okay, centers around shy sixth grader Tori Taylor. Tori represents what it is like to be a bystander to bullying.
Tori is sweet and just wants to stay out of the limelight. She is no match for the overbearing Kylie. In fact she goes out of her way to avoid conflict with Kylie. When Ginger comes along and draws Kylie's fire, Tori is caught in a dilemma that too many of our girls face each day.
I have long been a fan of Nancy's writing, and I have to say this is some of her finest work. She does an amazing job of giving voice and emotion to this pervasive topic. Every tween or young teen girl should read this. Yes it is a work of fiction but I'm sure you will immediately see the powerful message of these fictional girls. The damage of bullying can be long lasting and we need to do whatever we can to put a stop to it.
The next two books in the series will address bullying from the perspectives of victim and bully. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the story. I hope you will join myself and others in declaring that bullying is #SoNotOkay!
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
Nancy Rue has written an amazing trilogy that addresses the topic of bullying in a unique way. Each of the three books will look at the topic of buyllying from a different perspective. The first book So Not Okay, centers around shy sixth grader Tori Taylor. Tori represents what it is like to be a bystander to bullying.
Tori is sweet and just wants to stay out of the limelight. She is no match for the overbearing Kylie. In fact she goes out of her way to avoid conflict with Kylie. When Ginger comes along and draws Kylie's fire, Tori is caught in a dilemma that too many of our girls face each day.
I have long been a fan of Nancy's writing, and I have to say this is some of her finest work. She does an amazing job of giving voice and emotion to this pervasive topic. Every tween or young teen girl should read this. Yes it is a work of fiction but I'm sure you will immediately see the powerful message of these fictional girls. The damage of bullying can be long lasting and we need to do whatever we can to put a stop to it.
The next two books in the series will address bullying from the perspectives of victim and bully. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the story. I hope you will join myself and others in declaring that bullying is #SoNotOkay!
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
September 8, 2014
Sixth-grader Tori Taylor has a loving family and good friends. Biggest problem in her life? Her mother wants her to be more ladylike.
Until she's targeted by the clique of mean girls she calls the "wolf pack."
Tori's relieved when the "Alpha Wolf" chooses a juicier target: a new girl who doesn't fit in. But how much bullying can Tori watch without taking action? Even if it means becoming a target herself?
Nancy Rue has crafted an engaging story with realistic characters in an all-too-common situation. As Tori and her friends struggle to know the right thing to do, they feel like the adults in the picture don't see what's happening. Except for Tori's dad's assistant, Lydia, who's endured her own share of bullying.
As Lydia helps the girls with a school project, she gives them basic strategies to respond to the pressure without turning into bullies themselves. By the end of the book, readers see these principles are biblically-based.
Tori and her family go to church, and she occasionally wonders about God, but this isn't a preachy sort of book. Nor is it a thinly-disguised lesson on how to behave. It's a story about friends, family, and the pressures of growing up—one that subtly offers perspective on how to face the bullies in our lives, whether we're young or old.
[A review copy was received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.]
Until she's targeted by the clique of mean girls she calls the "wolf pack."
Tori's relieved when the "Alpha Wolf" chooses a juicier target: a new girl who doesn't fit in. But how much bullying can Tori watch without taking action? Even if it means becoming a target herself?
Nancy Rue has crafted an engaging story with realistic characters in an all-too-common situation. As Tori and her friends struggle to know the right thing to do, they feel like the adults in the picture don't see what's happening. Except for Tori's dad's assistant, Lydia, who's endured her own share of bullying.
As Lydia helps the girls with a school project, she gives them basic strategies to respond to the pressure without turning into bullies themselves. By the end of the book, readers see these principles are biblically-based.
Tori and her family go to church, and she occasionally wonders about God, but this isn't a preachy sort of book. Nor is it a thinly-disguised lesson on how to behave. It's a story about friends, family, and the pressures of growing up—one that subtly offers perspective on how to face the bullies in our lives, whether we're young or old.
[A review copy was received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.]
October 26, 2015
Winnie, Ophelia and Tori have been cruising (somewhat uncomfortably) under the radar of Queen Bee Kylie and her little hive of mean girls.
Just as they seem to be drifting into Kylie's focus - Red-headed Virginia, Ginger, joins the school and deflects the bullying attention to herself.
The bullying is clearly over the top to most every kid in the grade and somehow invisible to the teachers.
In science the group project is to answer a question about the body or the mind that puzzles the group. When one of the kids says, "Why are some kids mean?" the teacher jumps on that as a great research question. So bullied Ginger joins the group of Tori, Ophelia, Winnie and Mitch.
Cracks form in life long friendships as Ophelia realizes that addressing this problem will put the trio that just ducked the mean girl treatment squarely in Kylie's sights.
To my mind this book addresses the bullying situation from many angles looks squarely at many of the problems kids face when dealing with bullies.
I think school staff would benefit from reading this book as much as kids.
There are some references to God and praying but it is treated as a 'cafeteria' item that some people choose and that others do not.
All in all, a deftly handled book that addresses the rampant bullying problem faced by kids today in every school.
Just as they seem to be drifting into Kylie's focus - Red-headed Virginia, Ginger, joins the school and deflects the bullying attention to herself.
The bullying is clearly over the top to most every kid in the grade and somehow invisible to the teachers.
In science the group project is to answer a question about the body or the mind that puzzles the group. When one of the kids says, "Why are some kids mean?" the teacher jumps on that as a great research question. So bullied Ginger joins the group of Tori, Ophelia, Winnie and Mitch.
Cracks form in life long friendships as Ophelia realizes that addressing this problem will put the trio that just ducked the mean girl treatment squarely in Kylie's sights.
To my mind this book addresses the bullying situation from many angles looks squarely at many of the problems kids face when dealing with bullies.
I think school staff would benefit from reading this book as much as kids.
There are some references to God and praying but it is treated as a 'cafeteria' item that some people choose and that others do not.
All in all, a deftly handled book that addresses the rampant bullying problem faced by kids today in every school.
June 5, 2014
Tori and her friends aren't exactly being bullied. But they are not very high on the list with the popular girls. It's more like they're invisible. But when a new girl arrives at school the popular girls begin to make her life miserable. Tori is stuck between ignoring what she sees happening or risk being put in the category with the girl being bullied. Can she come up with a plan to stop the taunts and save her class project or will everything fall down around her?
This book was extremely well written. Sadly I could really relate, so it was also a bit painful to read. The author did a great job of not only telling the story, but showing ways to combat the bullying. Young girls will be able not only feel like someone understands, but will be left with solutions and tactics they can use to help get rid of the bullies in their school. While the subject matter is heavy, the author has inserted elements of humor that makes the story fun to read as well. I would highly recommend this book to any young girl about to enter middle school.
I received this book free of charge from Harper Collins in exchange for my honest review.
This book was extremely well written. Sadly I could really relate, so it was also a bit painful to read. The author did a great job of not only telling the story, but showing ways to combat the bullying. Young girls will be able not only feel like someone understands, but will be left with solutions and tactics they can use to help get rid of the bullies in their school. While the subject matter is heavy, the author has inserted elements of humor that makes the story fun to read as well. I would highly recommend this book to any young girl about to enter middle school.
I received this book free of charge from Harper Collins in exchange for my honest review.
December 10, 2014
This book is tremendous. I can't wait to read more. I love the characters. Even the "Pack" members are so believably written that I felt that fear. You just weren't sure what they would do. This kind of bullying is insidious. You don't know how it's going to happen and it's hard to know what do to. The desire to fight back is one of the natural responses, but won't ever help. I am so thankful for the steps they discussed and how the answers are in the bible, and that those suggestions didn't come out heavy handed.
Reading this as an adult also brought up a lot of issues. Tori's parents loved her, but were often busy with their own commitments. Tori thankfully had others to lean on, but then they were taken away. The short bits of Kylie's mother were enough to show the influence of parental attitudes. She acted entitled and taught that to her daughter. And the teachers not seeing or believing, because of the cleverness of the "Pack" created more of a fearful atmosphere. I was so thankful they stepped up.
Reading this as an adult also brought up a lot of issues. Tori's parents loved her, but were often busy with their own commitments. Tori thankfully had others to lean on, but then they were taken away. The short bits of Kylie's mother were enough to show the influence of parental attitudes. She acted entitled and taught that to her daughter. And the teachers not seeing or believing, because of the cleverness of the "Pack" created more of a fearful atmosphere. I was so thankful they stepped up.
September 19, 2014
When I first saw this book, it seemed strange to me. I try not to judge a book by the cover, but in this case the cover made me embarrassed to carry it around. Once I started to read it, it was not so bad. This book is definitely for someone in middle school, not high school. It is about bullying in Tori's middle school. For Tori, she has her group and they have always been invisible to the "pack" but when they start getting picked on, Tori starts to realize how much control the "pack" has over everyone. Then when a new girl comes and gets bullied, Tori realizes that what is happening is not okay. The only problem is that she does not know what to do about it. This book does a great job writing about bullying, peer pressure and what to do about it. There was nothing great about it, but there was nothing bad about it either. It did have a strange little bit about faith in God and church. But, other then that, it was a good book about bullying for middle schoolers.
July 6, 2014
This is the first book in a trilogy that addresses bullying in the tween realm of life. Each of the books is from a different point of view. This book is from the bystanders point of view. This is a good book for tweens and adults to read. It brings to light the way we all see things differently and how a simple decision can change your life and those around you. I really enjoyed this book and learned a lot from it. I am planning on giving it to my own daughter to read. I give it 4 stars.
April 27, 2015
This book, for a young person that is in a traditional school setting is very important. In a fiction style, this book relays much of the struggle young people would go through while being bullied. It shows that it is not just from your enemies, but can also be your friends that pressure you as well.
Bullying is not isolated to only traditional schools as it can occur in homeschool settings as well, it is just that parents are generally more present to deal with it. However, the book is aimed for a traditional school setting.
Bullying is not isolated to only traditional schools as it can occur in homeschool settings as well, it is just that parents are generally more present to deal with it. However, the book is aimed for a traditional school setting.
July 21, 2015
The story starts off with the narrator as a bystander. Great tips in this book about how to handle bullies, staying strong, and sticking to your principles. The author tried not to be preachy but snuck a few religious references in there... so unless your kids know God they may feel a little uncomfortable reading those parts.
I loved the fact that the techniques they used were explained, then acted out, and ultimately reiterated throughout the book. A young reader would really take away the messages in here, and I will definitely read the next book in the series with my daughter.
I loved the fact that the techniques they used were explained, then acted out, and ultimately reiterated throughout the book. A young reader would really take away the messages in here, and I will definitely read the next book in the series with my daughter.
March 14, 2016
So my 9 year old daughter wanted me to read this after she read it so we could "talk about it." I loved it! The best part of this book is that it's the first in a 3 part series about bullying. Each book is written from a different perspective: the bystander, the one being bullied and the bully. Looking forward to reading the others and highly recommend this book to any girl age 8-12. Love the way Nancy Rue tackles the subject and encourages young girls to be the young women God created them to be.
June 19, 2014
Nancy Rue realistically captures bullying in the middle school years and tells readers how to deal with the situation. The reader can get emotionally involved, wanting to help the girls solve this problem and hoping the bullies get caught. I liked how she presented a very real problem and offered doable solutions, giving girls in such a situation hope and the knowledge that they don't have to suffer through this alone.
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