Moving On Up: Beat the bullies, make fearless friendships and deal with funny fails

by Rosie Jones, Hayley Wells (Illustrator)

Navigate the perils of growing up in this hilarious and confidence-building guide to friendship, beating the bullies and overcoming cringe-worthy moments - by comedian and bestselling children's writer, Rosie Jones.No one knows quite as much about friendship fails, dealing with bullies and being TOTALLY embarrassed, then Rosie Jones. You name a completely awkward situation, and she's been there, got the t-shirt and probably done it all again. Rosie knows just how hard growing up can be, but she also knows that you can overcome the difficult and embarrassing moments with the help of good friends and a good sense of humour. So, sit back, grab a packet of crisps and crunch your way through this super handy guide to navigating all the tricky growing up stuff (and styling out of all the totally cringe moments life throws your way).

224 pages, Paperback

Published June 20, 2024

About the author

Rosie Jones is a British stand-up comedian who has written for multiple panel shows, and has appeared as a guest on The Last Leg, 8 Out of 10 Cats, and Hypothetical. Rosie often incorporates her cerebral palsy into her comedic style. She was awarded second place in the Leicester Mercury's New Comedian of the Year in 2018, and her star has been on the rise ever since. Rosie has written for Sex Education and hosts the podcast Daddy Look at Me with Helen Bauer. Rosie can't wait to be a children's author - Jaqueline Wilson is her personal hero!

Reviews

[Mady · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely book for primary kids to read in preparation for the future. The chapters are organized in topics like the move to a secondary school, upcoming body changes or bullying (among many others). Rosie writes in such a friendly and nice way that you feel that she’s there next to you, holding your hand, while she explains and shares ideas and advice about some serious and important topics.

I came to this book when I checked what else Rosie Jones wrote as I’m a big fan of her Edie Eckhart’s books!

[theuntidybookshelves · Rating 3 out of 5]

disclaimer: i personally struggled to get through this book due to its simplicity - but that's because i'm far above the recommended reading age and i don't enjoy reading non-fiction generally - rather than because of the book's content (this was disappointing as i absolutely LOVED rosie's fiction books!) therefore, my review is an objective one which takes into account the intended audience.

moving on up is a self-help book designed to help 8-12 year olds navigate the trials and tribulations of growing up. i liked how the book was separated into chapters, and how readers were advised to dip in and out of the book when necessary (treating it as a sort of survival guide) rather than reading it cover to cover. i thought the pairing drink/snack for each chapter was a fun idea. the book offers a wealth of age-appropriate advice and frequently reminds readers that being kind to others and not taking yourself too seriously are the most important parts of life. it also touches on deeper subjects (such as saying goodbye to a loved one) without going into too much detail and remains lighthearted throughout. i would be happy to give this book as a present to young relatives or family friends.

3.5 stars.

[Sophie Crane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super fun and accessible, you can hear Rosie’s voice throughout and her humour makes this book easy to engage with. Dealing with a wide-range of topics this is a fab book for late primary school aged children preparing to move up; in school and in life.

[Barbara Band · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book on puberty and transitioning from primary to secondary school. Lots of advice, tips and useful suggestions. Very accessible and fun to read. A must for the primary school library.