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Bullied to Death?: A Story Of Bullying, Social Media, And The Suicide Of Sherokee Harriman
On September 5, 2015, in a public park in LaVergne, Tennessee, fourteen-year-old Sherokee Harriman drove a kitchen knife into her stomach as other teens watched in horror. Despite attempts to save her, the girl died, and the coroner ruled it a “suicide.” But was it? Or was it a crime perpetuated by other teens who had bullied her?
Sherokee’s short life and tragic death created a national media and social media frenzy much of it centered on sensationalism rather than the truth. Meanwhile in LaVergne, the community sought answers to questions about who, if anyone, should be held criminally responsible for “bullying.”
Award-winning author and criminologist Judith A. Yates peels back the layers of sensational news coverage surrounding a girl’s death, and in context with national interest in the phenomenon of internet bullying tries to answer the question of whether Sherokee Harriman was BULLIED TO DEATH.
Sherokee’s short life and tragic death created a national media and social media frenzy much of it centered on sensationalism rather than the truth. Meanwhile in LaVergne, the community sought answers to questions about who, if anyone, should be held criminally responsible for “bullying.”
Award-winning author and criminologist Judith A. Yates peels back the layers of sensational news coverage surrounding a girl’s death, and in context with national interest in the phenomenon of internet bullying tries to answer the question of whether Sherokee Harriman was BULLIED TO DEATH.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 10, 2018
131 people are currently reading
176 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
April 12, 2018
This was a good story about a teenage girl who was having problems that included bullying. It looks at many aspects of her life, different things that had happened earlier in her life that had made her struggles difficult, along with various things they had tried to help her. There were a few odd grammar glitches in the book that stood out to me.
Also see my review on my WordPress blog - https://wordpress.com/post/bookblog20...
Also see my review on my WordPress blog - https://wordpress.com/post/bookblog20...
April 26, 2018
Release Date: April 19, 2018
Genre: True Crime
Actual Rating: 1 star
Hmm.. I don't know where to start. I guess I'll first say that the story of Sherokee's life and untimely death is utterly horrible. Reading about her home life and what lead up to her suicide it tragic and heartbreaking. My rating of the book has nothing to do with how I felt about this poor young girl at all- it's the story, the books layout, and the missing information I felt it needed in order to be a cohesive novel.
So this novel would be considered a true crime novel because it deals with a REAL crime and REAL people. I am a huge fan of the genre and normally gobble up these books in one or two sittings. Why? Because they are INTERESTING. I enjoy reading about how people become bad and how their childhood and adulthood play a part in the crimes they commit. Unfortunately, none of this was incorporated in this novel.
One of the things that really bothered me about this book is the "choppiness". The book starts off strong when readers get a sneak peak as to WHY Sherokee committed suicide (we are lead to believe it's because she was being bullied- that is the title after all, correct?). However, this bullying by her peers are hardly a part of this book. If her family members want to say she was murdered by bullying and the author wants to base a book of these ideas then it would have been a good idea to make the bullying a large part of the novel. It wasn't.
Another thing that truly pissed me off- and I mean TRULY- is the fact that her family (mainly her mother and grandmother) have the nerve to say that Sherokee's peers who were bullying her lead to her suicide, when in actuality, all of this child's LIFE was bred of being bullied by her family who are pointing their fingers at the other kids. WHAT!?!? Are you freakin KIDDING ME?!?! Most of this book talks about this girls childhood- her mother was neglectful, couldn't keep her kids clean, and cussed at them whenever she was having a "bad day"- and her grandmother's own form of bullying with the yelling and screaming because they couldn't control her. What in the actual F*C#. How dare these people say that the kids in her school bullied her to her death when they put this kid through hell and back as she was growing up. I almost threw my iPad across the room I was so infuriated.
On top of all this, the child has screamed HUNDREDS of time that she was going to kill herself at home. Did her mom or grandmother do ANYTHING about this? Nope. Sure, they sent her to a psychiatric facility for her anger and mood disorders but nothing was done about these threats. How freakin SAD is this. This child could have been saved with the right help and the right support. But no, this never happened. I just can't understand it.
Now, when it comes to the actual book, as I mentioned above, it seemed choppy. The author should have done some more research about the case rather than spewing all these quotes and statistics off the internet when it comes to child psychiatric disorders, and other things. In some moments, I felt like I was reading a term paper- one I would be too afraid to hand in myself (and I have written MANY, especially on childhood/adolescent disorders. Fun fact, I have my masters in child psychology). In the title, we are lead to believe this will be a book (or an in depth look) about a case where bullying could have caused a suicide and how social media is tied into it etc. etc. But again, this was HARDLY brought up in the book. I mean, seriously? Could you have gotten a look at the texts on this girls phone? How about some other information about how social media SPECIFICALLY lead to her suicide? That would have helped A LOT. It wasn't here. I think many readers will be both disappointed and upset that we're lead to believe this book is one thing when in fact, it is something entirely different.
If you are a hardcore true crime fan, SKIP this book. I don't recommend it. However, if you have a chance to look into this case I would tell you to do so because it is truly heartbreaking and deserves some recognition.
Genre: True Crime
Actual Rating: 1 star
Hmm.. I don't know where to start. I guess I'll first say that the story of Sherokee's life and untimely death is utterly horrible. Reading about her home life and what lead up to her suicide it tragic and heartbreaking. My rating of the book has nothing to do with how I felt about this poor young girl at all- it's the story, the books layout, and the missing information I felt it needed in order to be a cohesive novel.
So this novel would be considered a true crime novel because it deals with a REAL crime and REAL people. I am a huge fan of the genre and normally gobble up these books in one or two sittings. Why? Because they are INTERESTING. I enjoy reading about how people become bad and how their childhood and adulthood play a part in the crimes they commit. Unfortunately, none of this was incorporated in this novel.
One of the things that really bothered me about this book is the "choppiness". The book starts off strong when readers get a sneak peak as to WHY Sherokee committed suicide (we are lead to believe it's because she was being bullied- that is the title after all, correct?). However, this bullying by her peers are hardly a part of this book. If her family members want to say she was murdered by bullying and the author wants to base a book of these ideas then it would have been a good idea to make the bullying a large part of the novel. It wasn't.
Another thing that truly pissed me off- and I mean TRULY- is the fact that her family (mainly her mother and grandmother) have the nerve to say that Sherokee's peers who were bullying her lead to her suicide, when in actuality, all of this child's LIFE was bred of being bullied by her family who are pointing their fingers at the other kids. WHAT!?!? Are you freakin KIDDING ME?!?! Most of this book talks about this girls childhood- her mother was neglectful, couldn't keep her kids clean, and cussed at them whenever she was having a "bad day"- and her grandmother's own form of bullying with the yelling and screaming because they couldn't control her. What in the actual F*C#. How dare these people say that the kids in her school bullied her to her death when they put this kid through hell and back as she was growing up. I almost threw my iPad across the room I was so infuriated.
On top of all this, the child has screamed HUNDREDS of time that she was going to kill herself at home. Did her mom or grandmother do ANYTHING about this? Nope. Sure, they sent her to a psychiatric facility for her anger and mood disorders but nothing was done about these threats. How freakin SAD is this. This child could have been saved with the right help and the right support. But no, this never happened. I just can't understand it.
Now, when it comes to the actual book, as I mentioned above, it seemed choppy. The author should have done some more research about the case rather than spewing all these quotes and statistics off the internet when it comes to child psychiatric disorders, and other things. In some moments, I felt like I was reading a term paper- one I would be too afraid to hand in myself (and I have written MANY, especially on childhood/adolescent disorders. Fun fact, I have my masters in child psychology). In the title, we are lead to believe this will be a book (or an in depth look) about a case where bullying could have caused a suicide and how social media is tied into it etc. etc. But again, this was HARDLY brought up in the book. I mean, seriously? Could you have gotten a look at the texts on this girls phone? How about some other information about how social media SPECIFICALLY lead to her suicide? That would have helped A LOT. It wasn't here. I think many readers will be both disappointed and upset that we're lead to believe this book is one thing when in fact, it is something entirely different.
If you are a hardcore true crime fan, SKIP this book. I don't recommend it. However, if you have a chance to look into this case I would tell you to do so because it is truly heartbreaking and deserves some recognition.
October 5, 2020
On September 5, 2015, in a Mankin Park in LaVergne, Tennessee, fourteen-year-old Sherokee Harriman drove a knife into her stomach as others watched in horror. What could have possibly caused a young woman to end her own life in such a brutal and public manner. The coroner ruled it a “suicide" but was it? Is it possible it was a crime perpetuated by other teens who had bullied her? Judith A. Yates attempts to answer these questions in BULLIED TO DEATH.
The story of Sherokee Harriman is extremely problematic. While Yates did a good job delving into the details of this young girls life, the result was that Sherokee (atleast from my perspective) is painted as a less sympathetic victim. I in no way wish to come across as victim blaming and while my heart aches for the young life lost, I would be lying if I said that Sherokee did not play a critical role in her own demise. Do I think Sherokee was bullied? Absolutely. Do I believe that the sole reason for her suicide was bullying? Absolutely not. After reading this book it was made blantantly obvious that she was both the bullied and the bully. It was also obvious that the school system, the mental health system as well as her own family failed her miserably.
I chose this story in particular because I am a TN native, in fact while reading it I took a small trip to Mankin Park. I am sad to say that the memorial to Sherokee no longer stands. I think overall this is a tragic and under acknowledged story. I also feel that there were some missed oppurtunties with this particular book. I wish Yates had focused more fully on bullying and bullying through social media. Those issues aside Yates did a solid job gathering information on the case its self as well as witness statements.
I do believe that books such as this one open up a further dialogue around issues plaguing our youth specifically bullying (physical and cyber), self harm and influence of social media. I think books like this, while tragic are important reminders of what can happen in hopes that other young people will be spared.
I will be honest and say that I wasnt in love with the narration. It was decently enough done, but it was a little flat.
Overall this was decent albeit not usual style of true crime book about a distressing topic. If you are looking for a hardcore true crime book you may wish to skip this one.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The story of Sherokee Harriman is extremely problematic. While Yates did a good job delving into the details of this young girls life, the result was that Sherokee (atleast from my perspective) is painted as a less sympathetic victim. I in no way wish to come across as victim blaming and while my heart aches for the young life lost, I would be lying if I said that Sherokee did not play a critical role in her own demise. Do I think Sherokee was bullied? Absolutely. Do I believe that the sole reason for her suicide was bullying? Absolutely not. After reading this book it was made blantantly obvious that she was both the bullied and the bully. It was also obvious that the school system, the mental health system as well as her own family failed her miserably.
I chose this story in particular because I am a TN native, in fact while reading it I took a small trip to Mankin Park. I am sad to say that the memorial to Sherokee no longer stands. I think overall this is a tragic and under acknowledged story. I also feel that there were some missed oppurtunties with this particular book. I wish Yates had focused more fully on bullying and bullying through social media. Those issues aside Yates did a solid job gathering information on the case its self as well as witness statements.
I do believe that books such as this one open up a further dialogue around issues plaguing our youth specifically bullying (physical and cyber), self harm and influence of social media. I think books like this, while tragic are important reminders of what can happen in hopes that other young people will be spared.
I will be honest and say that I wasnt in love with the narration. It was decently enough done, but it was a little flat.
Overall this was decent albeit not usual style of true crime book about a distressing topic. If you are looking for a hardcore true crime book you may wish to skip this one.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2018
Many thanks to Judith Yates and Wildblue Press for the free copy of this book in exchange for my unbiased review.
This book is just too sad for words. Sherokee Harriman was a girl with the world against her. She had poor parenting in the home, poor educational observance, poor peer relations, poor finances. I just can’t imagine feeling as desolate as this little girl did in life to think that killing herself in front of a crowd at the park would prove something. Every system that should be put in place to support a child failed her. EVERY. SYSTEM. FAILED. There is no excuse none. When I first earned my teaching license I worked with children like Sherokee. They are a tough audience. And experiences like hers are why. Everyone in her life let her down. She hit the worst bottom there is. There is no picking her up and brushing her off. Ever again. She was taken for granted and ignored and she gave up. I send my apology to you, Sherokee, in my prayers on the summer breeze. Find peace.
This book is just too sad for words. Sherokee Harriman was a girl with the world against her. She had poor parenting in the home, poor educational observance, poor peer relations, poor finances. I just can’t imagine feeling as desolate as this little girl did in life to think that killing herself in front of a crowd at the park would prove something. Every system that should be put in place to support a child failed her. EVERY. SYSTEM. FAILED. There is no excuse none. When I first earned my teaching license I worked with children like Sherokee. They are a tough audience. And experiences like hers are why. Everyone in her life let her down. She hit the worst bottom there is. There is no picking her up and brushing her off. Ever again. She was taken for granted and ignored and she gave up. I send my apology to you, Sherokee, in my prayers on the summer breeze. Find peace.
October 1, 2018
I want to start off by saying this book is a wake up call to parents. The book starts off with a big bang with the death of Sherokee and those final moments surrounding it. From there the book dives into the entire back story of her life. And sadly, it's not a long life. This is my only issue with the book - it's a little choppy here. Not from the content or from what the author was trying to accomplish, simply the writing. Having said that, I believe all of this back story is incredibly important to seeing the bigger picture of who Sherokee was and all the baggage that was suffocating her. It's heartbreaking to read. This beautiful child was never given a chance in life.
The title Bullied to death is really an appropriate title for this book. There are so many ways Sherokee was bullied - from her peers at school, to her home life, even by the educational system. And the author does a great job going into detail of all of these aspects. By the end of the book we don't truly know if she committed suicide or if the peers who were bullying her had a hand in her death (as her family claims). For her family's sake I pray one day they get those answers. For the rest of us, Sherokee's story is not just a wake up call, but a learning opportunity. Bullying is a real thing and strongly prevalent in the life of today's kids. Bullicide is a real thing and we need to know the signs to look for. Mental illness in youth is a real thing and we need to know how to address it. Parents need to be involved in their children's lives. Teachers, social workers and extended family members need to read this book as well and learn from it. Everyone in Sherokee's life either failed her or missed the signs that there was a bigger problem or didn't know the right way to help her. This needs to change with our youth.
My heart goes out to Sherokee's family. They laid it all out there for the world to read and judge. That couldn't have been easy. I hope they know that Sherokee's story will make a difference.
My thanks to Judith Yates, Wild Blue Press and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The title Bullied to death is really an appropriate title for this book. There are so many ways Sherokee was bullied - from her peers at school, to her home life, even by the educational system. And the author does a great job going into detail of all of these aspects. By the end of the book we don't truly know if she committed suicide or if the peers who were bullying her had a hand in her death (as her family claims). For her family's sake I pray one day they get those answers. For the rest of us, Sherokee's story is not just a wake up call, but a learning opportunity. Bullying is a real thing and strongly prevalent in the life of today's kids. Bullicide is a real thing and we need to know the signs to look for. Mental illness in youth is a real thing and we need to know how to address it. Parents need to be involved in their children's lives. Teachers, social workers and extended family members need to read this book as well and learn from it. Everyone in Sherokee's life either failed her or missed the signs that there was a bigger problem or didn't know the right way to help her. This needs to change with our youth.
My heart goes out to Sherokee's family. They laid it all out there for the world to read and judge. That couldn't have been easy. I hope they know that Sherokee's story will make a difference.
My thanks to Judith Yates, Wild Blue Press and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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November 13, 2018Read this earlier in the year because I wanted to know more about the case. No real opinions about the book or writing.
April 25, 2018
This review is also posted in my blog :
https://onewordtoomuch.wordpress.com/...
Thank you to WildBlue Press and Net Galley for a free copy of this book in trade for an honest review
It’s a sad story to read and it really breaks my heart to see such a beautiful young woman is driven to commit suicide. As a biography, this story is told in a conversational way and makes it easy to read and follow. It’s well researched with most of data comes from the victim’s cellphone and social media, as well as from family and friends.
The story sometimes read from Sherokee point of view, other times from her friends or parents. It covers from Sherokee’s background until her death. This is a disturbing story to read if you have children. As parents, we tend to think that our children are “having a great time, nothing to worry about except school”. But this story proves the opposite. Children do suffer psychologically and they don’t have the capability to handle the burden. Our job as parents to keep our children safe and help them to survived this hard life.
There are also some notes on mental illness that need more attention from parents and educators as well. Mental illness is usually banished behind closed doors. “Let’s pretend it’s not there, why are you depressed, there’s no such thing as depressed, etc”. Can’t imagine how difficult it is for the patient to understand themselves and without a good support system, things could go wrong. The story of Sherokee Harriman proves it.
https://onewordtoomuch.wordpress.com/...
Thank you to WildBlue Press and Net Galley for a free copy of this book in trade for an honest review
It’s a sad story to read and it really breaks my heart to see such a beautiful young woman is driven to commit suicide. As a biography, this story is told in a conversational way and makes it easy to read and follow. It’s well researched with most of data comes from the victim’s cellphone and social media, as well as from family and friends.
The story sometimes read from Sherokee point of view, other times from her friends or parents. It covers from Sherokee’s background until her death. This is a disturbing story to read if you have children. As parents, we tend to think that our children are “having a great time, nothing to worry about except school”. But this story proves the opposite. Children do suffer psychologically and they don’t have the capability to handle the burden. Our job as parents to keep our children safe and help them to survived this hard life.
There are also some notes on mental illness that need more attention from parents and educators as well. Mental illness is usually banished behind closed doors. “Let’s pretend it’s not there, why are you depressed, there’s no such thing as depressed, etc”. Can’t imagine how difficult it is for the patient to understand themselves and without a good support system, things could go wrong. The story of Sherokee Harriman proves it.
Recommend for those who like to read a well researched autobiography about teenager life and mental illness topic.
April 22, 2018
In Bullied to Death we learn about the harsh conditions Sherokee Harriman grew up in; the things she had to endure and what finally pushed her over the edge. I still don’t know who or what to believe, even after finishing this book it seems so very unlikely a girl like this would stab herself to death with a knife.. bullicide has never been so real to me, I usually cower away from stories like Sherokee’s. After reading this though, I think maybe we all should do more to prevent things like these from happening..
Bullied to death is written solely on facts and statements from friends, family and other people that knew Sherokee Harriman and I think that that made the book interesting and pretty intense
Bullied to death is written solely on facts and statements from friends, family and other people that knew Sherokee Harriman and I think that that made the book interesting and pretty intense
April 10, 2020
First of all the writing annoys me. Using the 2 words little girl so many times in this book that even I noticed it that says something. :-) Those words together were used 43! times.
Then the book was not really about some (little girl) being bullied but more about how a family pattern can destroy in advance many generations.
Wow.what a depression lot they were. Family that is blaming anyone but themselves while she was already shouting she would kill herself at a very young age if she did not get her way. That is someone who is really messed up from a young age.
Of course incest or at least sexual abuse tok place but also that Sherokee was spoiled and very mentally ill.
There are not many people who would dare to do to themselves what she did so was she brave or was she mentally disturbed she did not think of any consequences. The latter. And I think this story is so sad. What a horrible life she lived as did her family.
Still reading this but nearly done.
This author wrote the very wel written book While Nashville bled by the way.
Well finished it and I must say the authors showed us that most media when they hear of bullying and a teenage suicide they jump to conclusions and write that it is all because of the bullying that this child did that but in nearly all cases there were already many problems. The bullying added to it.
I think she did her best with this book but many readers misunderstood.
3.5
Then the book was not really about some (little girl) being bullied but more about how a family pattern can destroy in advance many generations.
Wow.what a depression lot they were. Family that is blaming anyone but themselves while she was already shouting she would kill herself at a very young age if she did not get her way. That is someone who is really messed up from a young age.
Of course incest or at least sexual abuse tok place but also that Sherokee was spoiled and very mentally ill.
There are not many people who would dare to do to themselves what she did so was she brave or was she mentally disturbed she did not think of any consequences. The latter. And I think this story is so sad. What a horrible life she lived as did her family.
Still reading this but nearly done.
This author wrote the very wel written book While Nashville bled by the way.
Well finished it and I must say the authors showed us that most media when they hear of bullying and a teenage suicide they jump to conclusions and write that it is all because of the bullying that this child did that but in nearly all cases there were already many problems. The bullying added to it.
I think she did her best with this book but many readers misunderstood.
3.5
April 25, 2018
This is a fact based account of the life and death of Sherokee Harriman, a 14 year old girl who lost her life far too soon. The question mark in the title would seem to be because nobody was charged in her death, it was not ruled that her death was a result of the bullying though it does seem to have been a factor. Much of the book was about her family life and did not really focus that much on bullying. Sherokee had a hard time at school and was picked on by her peers, but she also had a difficult home life, a dysfunctional family, had been molested, was diagnosed bi-polar and had threatened to kill herself on numerous occasions when she did not get her way. Nobody but Sherokee can ever really know for certain whether she meant to die that day, or whether this act was a cry for help that just never came. There is some mention of her having YouTube and other social media accounts, which made me want to check to see if any were still online. I did find some of her videos which are still there, though I wish I had not watched them because they left me feeling very sad for her. I'm just not sure what the author was going for here. 2 and a half stars rounded up to 3
I received a complimentary copy for review.
I received a complimentary copy for review.
June 14, 2018
Sherokee Harriman was only 14-years old when she committed suicide in a park in front of some of the kids who bullied her. She led an extremely troubled life – abused from the time she was only 3 years old, she also had a number of mental illness issues. When she plunged a knife into her belly on that day…
I think the subtitle of this one is a bit misleading, as I don’t think “social media” needs to be there. The author used social media in her research, as well as texts between Sherokee and her family and friends (in addition to interviews and plenty of other research). However, it is a sad story of a mentally ill girl who just couldn’t seem to get a break. Chapters near the end include some stats on bullying and suicide, so at that point it gets away a bit from Sherokee’s story, specifically. But, still interesting.
I think the subtitle of this one is a bit misleading, as I don’t think “social media” needs to be there. The author used social media in her research, as well as texts between Sherokee and her family and friends (in addition to interviews and plenty of other research). However, it is a sad story of a mentally ill girl who just couldn’t seem to get a break. Chapters near the end include some stats on bullying and suicide, so at that point it gets away a bit from Sherokee’s story, specifically. But, still interesting.
June 24, 2018
Bullied to Death by Judith Yates is a sad story about a teenage girl who was failed by all around her until she was so overwhelmed that she killed herself in front of some other teens. The whole story really touched my heart and made me hurt for those involved. I thought the book was well researched and I love the way Judith writes. She writes in a way that is easy to follow and understand. It is not all fancy educational type wording. She writes so that everyone can be touched by the story. Judith Yates is one of my favorite true crime writers indeed. I do recommend this book to anyone! Bullying can be such a big problem in our society now that maybe if people were able to read someone's story, people might do something about it finally.
May 31, 2018
This book was well written about a touchy subject relevant to this generation. It was a very thought provoking book which made me feel sad and frustrated.
May 22, 2018
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and Wildblue Press in exchange for an honest review.
This was a particularly tough read for me I was also bullied for a very long time just like Sherokee, luckily for me this way before the digital age.
This story is about a girl who is a victim of a broken system. Everything that could go wrong did go wrong. The school system with the so-called zero tolerance for bullying policy did nothing to stop it neither did they do anything to help her out on an educational level. The kids at school were absolutely horrible to her and the teachers weren’t much better. It’s no wonder Sherokee hated school so much.
Having gone through highschool while being bullied on a daily basis is an absolute struggle. It sure as hell was for me nobody helped me in fact I even got kicked out of school because it’s easier to remove 1 kid from the equation than to kick out an entire group of bullies.
This book is a well written account about the daily struggle that’s life for Sherokee. Sherokee didn’t stand a chance almost from the day she was born, her family did what they could to help her to no avail. Sherokee had many issues and was often misunderstood by family and friends. While I feel that the bullying added to Sherokee’s fragile mental state I don’t put the full blame on the kids who tormented her. Whenever a person commits suicide you can’t put the full blame just on one factor in the person’s life, often there are many issues that add to the situation. I totally understand her parents wanting to blame someone but you simply can’t all blame it on just the bullies. As you read this book you’ll understand why I have this opinion.
I can’t say much more since this a book you have to read yourself to fully understand the situation. This book is a must read for parents of kids that are being bullied and also for the bullies.
The author did some proper research for this book which I appreciate greatly. Judith is a gifted criminologist and true crime author. I’m looking forward to her next book!
This was a particularly tough read for me I was also bullied for a very long time just like Sherokee, luckily for me this way before the digital age.
This story is about a girl who is a victim of a broken system. Everything that could go wrong did go wrong. The school system with the so-called zero tolerance for bullying policy did nothing to stop it neither did they do anything to help her out on an educational level. The kids at school were absolutely horrible to her and the teachers weren’t much better. It’s no wonder Sherokee hated school so much.
Having gone through highschool while being bullied on a daily basis is an absolute struggle. It sure as hell was for me nobody helped me in fact I even got kicked out of school because it’s easier to remove 1 kid from the equation than to kick out an entire group of bullies.
This book is a well written account about the daily struggle that’s life for Sherokee. Sherokee didn’t stand a chance almost from the day she was born, her family did what they could to help her to no avail. Sherokee had many issues and was often misunderstood by family and friends. While I feel that the bullying added to Sherokee’s fragile mental state I don’t put the full blame on the kids who tormented her. Whenever a person commits suicide you can’t put the full blame just on one factor in the person’s life, often there are many issues that add to the situation. I totally understand her parents wanting to blame someone but you simply can’t all blame it on just the bullies. As you read this book you’ll understand why I have this opinion.
I can’t say much more since this a book you have to read yourself to fully understand the situation. This book is a must read for parents of kids that are being bullied and also for the bullies.
The author did some proper research for this book which I appreciate greatly. Judith is a gifted criminologist and true crime author. I’m looking forward to her next book!
April 29, 2018
Sherokee Harriman was 14. She had a family including an adoring older sister and a best friend Katie. She liked pink and teen stars whose pictures were all over her walls. She was also being bullied. Bullied so much that she took her own life one fall September day.
This book was heartbreaking to read. Sherokee had so much riding against her since the very beginning of her young life. Never meeting her father and having a dysfunctional mother and family, she really didn't have much of a chance. Sherokee just wanted what everyone wants. She just wanted to belong, have friends, and a boy to love her. She wanted her own room and nice clothes but they could never afford them.
"Bullied to Death" is well written and detailed. A lot of research went into the writing of the book giving us an understanding of Sherokee's life with no sugar coating. Her bullying was in many forms and went on for years. How does that happen? How was she bullied for years with no one putting an end to it? Reading the story of her short life from beginning to end is eye opening to the reality of what is happening with many children and making us aware of the damage bullying costs. Without that awareness, it will continue. While reading the book and getting to know Sherokee though, I am left with the question of suicide or was it something else?
This book should be one that is made available to school students and talked about in classes showing how bullying hurts and how devastating it can be; it isn't just kids fooling around.
Although this was not a happy topic by any means, it a good book, well worth the read. I received this book free from net galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This book was heartbreaking to read. Sherokee had so much riding against her since the very beginning of her young life. Never meeting her father and having a dysfunctional mother and family, she really didn't have much of a chance. Sherokee just wanted what everyone wants. She just wanted to belong, have friends, and a boy to love her. She wanted her own room and nice clothes but they could never afford them.
"Bullied to Death" is well written and detailed. A lot of research went into the writing of the book giving us an understanding of Sherokee's life with no sugar coating. Her bullying was in many forms and went on for years. How does that happen? How was she bullied for years with no one putting an end to it? Reading the story of her short life from beginning to end is eye opening to the reality of what is happening with many children and making us aware of the damage bullying costs. Without that awareness, it will continue. While reading the book and getting to know Sherokee though, I am left with the question of suicide or was it something else?
This book should be one that is made available to school students and talked about in classes showing how bullying hurts and how devastating it can be; it isn't just kids fooling around.
Although this was not a happy topic by any means, it a good book, well worth the read. I received this book free from net galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2018
I generally enjoy non-fiction books like this. I was wanting a book that was talking about the dangers of social media and cyberbullying, however what I got was a story where the suicide and social media where mentioned for maybe the first 10% and then the next 30% was about the grandparents and mothers history before then talking about Sherokee's childhood. Pair that with the choppy writing and I'm surprised I read as much as I did. DNF at 39%
I received Bullied to Death from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
I received Bullied to Death from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2018
I thank the Netgalley website for this partnership.
On the cover we see Sherokee. It all starts on September 5, 2015 in a public park in Tennessee. Sherokee, 14, stabs a knife in the stomach in front of other young people. Relief can not save her, the police think of suicide. The police will search if she was not harassed or otherwise.
A book read with tears in the eyes especially at the end where the author shows us pictures of her that retrace her life before her death. A moving story well told, we see that the author has done quite a lot of research on the subject. This subject is important to me, how many teenagers commit suicide because they can not stand being harassed and no one is there to support them.
On the cover we see Sherokee. It all starts on September 5, 2015 in a public park in Tennessee. Sherokee, 14, stabs a knife in the stomach in front of other young people. Relief can not save her, the police think of suicide. The police will search if she was not harassed or otherwise.
A book read with tears in the eyes especially at the end where the author shows us pictures of her that retrace her life before her death. A moving story well told, we see that the author has done quite a lot of research on the subject. This subject is important to me, how many teenagers commit suicide because they can not stand being harassed and no one is there to support them.
May 10, 2018
This was a hard book to read. Sherokee was ignored when she asked for help, by her own family, her friends, and her school. This child grew up in a dysfunctional way. Bullying was not the only problem she had to deal with.
Yates did a wonderful job of following Sherokee's story. She did a lot of background work on her story. She also included tons of information for anyone considering suicide, or those being bullied.
I was disappointed in the fact that the story didn't really make it clear exactly what happened with Sherokee on the day the stabbing occurred. Were the other children involved? Did someone else do this to her? I guess we will never know because she is not here to tell us. It is a sad ending to a sad story.
*Thank you to NetGalley, Judith A. Yates, and the publisher for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Yates did a wonderful job of following Sherokee's story. She did a lot of background work on her story. She also included tons of information for anyone considering suicide, or those being bullied.
I was disappointed in the fact that the story didn't really make it clear exactly what happened with Sherokee on the day the stabbing occurred. Were the other children involved? Did someone else do this to her? I guess we will never know because she is not here to tell us. It is a sad ending to a sad story.
*Thank you to NetGalley, Judith A. Yates, and the publisher for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2018
Note: I would like to thank NetGalley, author Judith A. Yates, and the Publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I'm rarely conflicted when reviewing a book, but Bullied to Death has left me conflicted when it comes to rating. Having read multiple true-crime genre books, I was interested in a story where bullying was going to be the driving force of a crime. However, it is very important for readers to understand there is a reason the title has "?" following its title. I'll elaborate below, and though there may be a spoiler along the way, I'll try not to reveal anything critical.
Sherokee Harriman was a 14-year-old girl that, unfortunately, was having a terrible time from birth through high school. Yates takes the time to elaborate on Sherokee's birth (she was a sickly baby), her early childhood during which she was molested (her attacker is never punished), and of course by high school she is being bullied. Bullying can vary from physical attacks, verbal assaults, digital explosions (ie: Facebook) and so it is important to note that Sherokee mainly experienced verbal assaults (although other methods were indeed used to torment her).
It is tragic to hear about a 14-year-old being bullied. (For reference: I grew up in the 1990s and early 2000s and bullying was--I hate to say it--a regular right of passage. In most cases the bullying would last a few weeks and the "crowd" would move on to another victim. It was quite normal and no one told their parents, or got the school involved unless there was a physical, violent attack.) This part of the story really does pull at your emotions because you so badly want to tell the victims of bullying that it will get better, and that the idiots being jerks are destined for sad lives.
But the book does take a dramatic turn as Yates continues to investigate Sherokee's early childhood. Whereas we are led to believe that the bullies are responsible for Sherokee's apparent suicide, the reader soon begins to learn that Sherokee has actually threatened to kill herself many, many times. Thus, we're faced with a book that begins to question if there are underlying symptoms of depression and then bullies just push kids to their last breaking point. An examination of this particular book will suggest that although bullies did impact Sherokee's life, she was indeed suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD from childhood trauma, was raised in a verbally violent home, etc. So there may not be one specific cause for her suicide. But... the bullying did not help.
My biggest problem with the book is that bullying is not the main discussion. Although I definitely understand a need to bring a backstory to the book--to understand how Sherokee was raised and grew up--at the same time, it actually just really makes you question the parenting that was going on in the Harriman household. Her mother neglected the children. The grandmother steps in to become a guardian at one point but seems distant. The mother-grandmother end up living together and there are constant fights. Simply put: Sherokee needed help and no one gave it to her.
Of course, once Sherokee has committed suicide the family plays the blame game. It has to be bullies--it has to be their fault. The school is at fault because they didn't do enough. The school didn't do enough to provide Sherokee with a better education. The reason she didn't receive good psychological treatment at an earlier age is because insurance wouldn't pay for better counseling options. Sure, everyone in the house fought, but that shouldn't have mattered because Sherokee was supposed to know people loved her. The mother cursing at her young child is 'normal' and somehow not bullying. Honestly, you become sickened by this family because (even if they 'tried their best') they did not seek enough help for Sherokee. There are several broken systems (we know kids pass grades that maybe shouldn't have; we know health insurance sucks for many people) throughout Sherokee's life--but the biggest break is her family.
My second issue with the book is that is sometimes becomes jumbled. Yates includes text from Facebook posts, text messages, etc., and I applaud that she doesn't edit them. They always appear as written. But sometimes, they are stuck right in the midst of other discussions and it becomes a little jumbled. There's something about the flow that does not always work.
Still an interesting read about bullying, childhood development, and a tragedy that probably could have been prevented if people would have stepped in sooner. Worth a read!
I'm rarely conflicted when reviewing a book, but Bullied to Death has left me conflicted when it comes to rating. Having read multiple true-crime genre books, I was interested in a story where bullying was going to be the driving force of a crime. However, it is very important for readers to understand there is a reason the title has "?" following its title. I'll elaborate below, and though there may be a spoiler along the way, I'll try not to reveal anything critical.
Sherokee Harriman was a 14-year-old girl that, unfortunately, was having a terrible time from birth through high school. Yates takes the time to elaborate on Sherokee's birth (she was a sickly baby), her early childhood during which she was molested (her attacker is never punished), and of course by high school she is being bullied. Bullying can vary from physical attacks, verbal assaults, digital explosions (ie: Facebook) and so it is important to note that Sherokee mainly experienced verbal assaults (although other methods were indeed used to torment her).
It is tragic to hear about a 14-year-old being bullied. (For reference: I grew up in the 1990s and early 2000s and bullying was--I hate to say it--a regular right of passage. In most cases the bullying would last a few weeks and the "crowd" would move on to another victim. It was quite normal and no one told their parents, or got the school involved unless there was a physical, violent attack.) This part of the story really does pull at your emotions because you so badly want to tell the victims of bullying that it will get better, and that the idiots being jerks are destined for sad lives.
But the book does take a dramatic turn as Yates continues to investigate Sherokee's early childhood. Whereas we are led to believe that the bullies are responsible for Sherokee's apparent suicide, the reader soon begins to learn that Sherokee has actually threatened to kill herself many, many times. Thus, we're faced with a book that begins to question if there are underlying symptoms of depression and then bullies just push kids to their last breaking point. An examination of this particular book will suggest that although bullies did impact Sherokee's life, she was indeed suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD from childhood trauma, was raised in a verbally violent home, etc. So there may not be one specific cause for her suicide. But... the bullying did not help.
My biggest problem with the book is that bullying is not the main discussion. Although I definitely understand a need to bring a backstory to the book--to understand how Sherokee was raised and grew up--at the same time, it actually just really makes you question the parenting that was going on in the Harriman household. Her mother neglected the children. The grandmother steps in to become a guardian at one point but seems distant. The mother-grandmother end up living together and there are constant fights. Simply put: Sherokee needed help and no one gave it to her.
Of course, once Sherokee has committed suicide the family plays the blame game. It has to be bullies--it has to be their fault. The school is at fault because they didn't do enough. The school didn't do enough to provide Sherokee with a better education. The reason she didn't receive good psychological treatment at an earlier age is because insurance wouldn't pay for better counseling options. Sure, everyone in the house fought, but that shouldn't have mattered because Sherokee was supposed to know people loved her. The mother cursing at her young child is 'normal' and somehow not bullying. Honestly, you become sickened by this family because (even if they 'tried their best') they did not seek enough help for Sherokee. There are several broken systems (we know kids pass grades that maybe shouldn't have; we know health insurance sucks for many people) throughout Sherokee's life--but the biggest break is her family.
My second issue with the book is that is sometimes becomes jumbled. Yates includes text from Facebook posts, text messages, etc., and I applaud that she doesn't edit them. They always appear as written. But sometimes, they are stuck right in the midst of other discussions and it becomes a little jumbled. There's something about the flow that does not always work.
Still an interesting read about bullying, childhood development, and a tragedy that probably could have been prevented if people would have stepped in sooner. Worth a read!
June 25, 2018
First, I want to thank Judith A. Yates, Wild Blue Press and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
Bullied to Death? A Story of Bullying, Social Media, And the Suicide of Sherokee Harriman by Judith A. Yates is an incredibly powerful, eye opening book, of how hateful verbal bullying effects someone emotionally, self-esteem, mentally and eventually to the point of doing harm to themselves. This is a book EVERY Parent, Uncle, Aunt, Health Teachers, Social Workers must read to understand our youth today and help if we see bullying happen.
Kudos to Elijah Toten for the incredible book cover design. That is what originally drew me to the book itself. After seeing the tile of the book and the blurb I knew I had to read it. I am a huge fan of true crime books and this seemed like it was literally ripped from the headlines. Plus, as a middle schooler and high schooler I was bullied at school for being born differently. However, never in a million years would I think of ever doing what Sherokee did!
This book is dedicated to Sherokee Rose Harriman and other countless children whom struggle daily with too many issues far too early in life.
Judith Yates mentions in her book that this is not a fictionalized version of the death of Sherokee Rose Harriman. She based this book on thousand of hours of interviews, social media research, cell phone record search, police reports, legal transcripts, photos, media, court reports, etc. Names and descriptions have been changed to protect their privacy.
Social Media however is exactly how it as appeared, without correction to spelling or grammar, in effort to remain true to the story.
My heart goes out to all the young people Judith talked to dealing with suicide, loneliness, depression, self-mutilation, dysfunctional home lives, verbal abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse and bullying. All of this BEFORE they are 16 years old!! I want to hug each one of these people she interviewed and tell them it is not their fault!! They don’t deserve any of this!! This breaks my heart!!
I am very grateful to hear/read that Judith will be giving a percentage of the book sales to a national non-profit organization that focuses on education about and preventing teen suicide!! This donation will be in memory of Sheokee Harriman whom we lost too soon to suicide! We need to do more to prevent suicide and to save the lives of our children.
In the Acknowledgments Judith thanks Sherokee’s family for their bravery and willingness to share their story of their daughter. I cant imagine how hard it was for them to relive their story. However, I agree that if it can save the life of one more child it is all worth it. Thank you for sharing your story with us! To her friends I am deeply sorry for your loss.
For Sherokee at age 14 was bullied beyond control by girls at school. She was called vulgar names and yet she didn’t know them or do anything to provoke this. She didn’t have the best life growing up and was at her breaking point. The beginning few chapters will pull on your heart strings. You will need tissues. You will realize how strong family and friends are in a time of crisis as well. The scene in the park and the aftermath just blew me away!
In this book the author mentions Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube and the history of it and how it played a role in Sherokee’s social media experience online.
We also learn about the family history and how it comes full circle to the events that lead up to the death of Sheokee. It is ironic but all too sad. My heart goes out to Heather more so for going through the abuse she went through on top of loosing her daughter.
Bullied to Death? A Story of Bullying, Social Media, And the Suicide of Sherokee Harriman by Judith A. Yates is an incredibly powerful, eye opening book, of how hateful verbal bullying effects someone emotionally, self-esteem, mentally and eventually to the point of doing harm to themselves. This is a book EVERY Parent, Uncle, Aunt, Health Teachers, Social Workers must read to understand our youth today and help if we see bullying happen.
Kudos to Elijah Toten for the incredible book cover design. That is what originally drew me to the book itself. After seeing the tile of the book and the blurb I knew I had to read it. I am a huge fan of true crime books and this seemed like it was literally ripped from the headlines. Plus, as a middle schooler and high schooler I was bullied at school for being born differently. However, never in a million years would I think of ever doing what Sherokee did!
This book is dedicated to Sherokee Rose Harriman and other countless children whom struggle daily with too many issues far too early in life.
Judith Yates mentions in her book that this is not a fictionalized version of the death of Sherokee Rose Harriman. She based this book on thousand of hours of interviews, social media research, cell phone record search, police reports, legal transcripts, photos, media, court reports, etc. Names and descriptions have been changed to protect their privacy.
Social Media however is exactly how it as appeared, without correction to spelling or grammar, in effort to remain true to the story.
My heart goes out to all the young people Judith talked to dealing with suicide, loneliness, depression, self-mutilation, dysfunctional home lives, verbal abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse and bullying. All of this BEFORE they are 16 years old!! I want to hug each one of these people she interviewed and tell them it is not their fault!! They don’t deserve any of this!! This breaks my heart!!
I am very grateful to hear/read that Judith will be giving a percentage of the book sales to a national non-profit organization that focuses on education about and preventing teen suicide!! This donation will be in memory of Sheokee Harriman whom we lost too soon to suicide! We need to do more to prevent suicide and to save the lives of our children.
In the Acknowledgments Judith thanks Sherokee’s family for their bravery and willingness to share their story of their daughter. I cant imagine how hard it was for them to relive their story. However, I agree that if it can save the life of one more child it is all worth it. Thank you for sharing your story with us! To her friends I am deeply sorry for your loss.
For Sherokee at age 14 was bullied beyond control by girls at school. She was called vulgar names and yet she didn’t know them or do anything to provoke this. She didn’t have the best life growing up and was at her breaking point. The beginning few chapters will pull on your heart strings. You will need tissues. You will realize how strong family and friends are in a time of crisis as well. The scene in the park and the aftermath just blew me away!
In this book the author mentions Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube and the history of it and how it played a role in Sherokee’s social media experience online.
We also learn about the family history and how it comes full circle to the events that lead up to the death of Sheokee. It is ironic but all too sad. My heart goes out to Heather more so for going through the abuse she went through on top of loosing her daughter.
June 19, 2018
Thank you NetGalley and WildBlue Press for a free e-copy of the nonfiction book Bullied To Death in exchange for an honest review.
Bullied To Death is the true story of Sherokee Harriman, a 15 year old girl who was bullied to the breaking point of suicide. The book starts of strong with the day of Sherokee's suicide. It gives the reader some insight into what she was potentially thinking, and sets up the ground work for what is expected to be a history of intense bullying and cyber bullying as eluded by the title. However, if the bullying that Sherokee experienced was constant and so horrific to the point she would chose to end her life, the book did not go into any detail that would suggest this. The book does however explain with great depth this poor girl's upbringing. We learn that early on she did not have an easy life and experienced trauma and adversity from a young age. Sherokee also struggled with suicidal ideation from a young age. While the book lacks in what should have been the central topic (bullying) I really enjoyed that other angles were explored, as suicide is multifactorial. The school system, mental health, and addressing that bullying in and of itself doesn't cause suicide were all discussed.
While I did enjoy this book, it did feel like significant pieces were missing. I would have liked to have read more about the background in the bullying - the encounter that prompts the suicide is from a girl who did not even know Sherokee. I also was expecting more detail in the days leading up to her death and the days after. This poor girl was dying and there were a lot of questionable things that happened and the author never went back to discuss it more (like why was 9-1-1 not called sooner and why did the police not thoroughly investigate it). The book description eludes that the suicide is questionable but there was very limited information on bullying laws and charging people with murder, as I would think this is a grey area in law (?!) Over all I would say I felt neutral about this book. The topic was upsetting and the people unlikable (as is the case in most true crime books!) because no one in this family could seem to get out of their own way but I would only say neutral because I felt it really lacked depth. I read a lot of true crime so I was expecting a good work up to the crime followed by a thorough investigation. If you're just looking to pass time with a quick easy read, then I would recommend it but if you're a fan of true crime, you can do better than this book.
Bullied To Death is the true story of Sherokee Harriman, a 15 year old girl who was bullied to the breaking point of suicide. The book starts of strong with the day of Sherokee's suicide. It gives the reader some insight into what she was potentially thinking, and sets up the ground work for what is expected to be a history of intense bullying and cyber bullying as eluded by the title. However, if the bullying that Sherokee experienced was constant and so horrific to the point she would chose to end her life, the book did not go into any detail that would suggest this. The book does however explain with great depth this poor girl's upbringing. We learn that early on she did not have an easy life and experienced trauma and adversity from a young age. Sherokee also struggled with suicidal ideation from a young age. While the book lacks in what should have been the central topic (bullying) I really enjoyed that other angles were explored, as suicide is multifactorial. The school system, mental health, and addressing that bullying in and of itself doesn't cause suicide were all discussed.
While I did enjoy this book, it did feel like significant pieces were missing. I would have liked to have read more about the background in the bullying - the encounter that prompts the suicide is from a girl who did not even know Sherokee. I also was expecting more detail in the days leading up to her death and the days after. This poor girl was dying and there were a lot of questionable things that happened and the author never went back to discuss it more (like why was 9-1-1 not called sooner and why did the police not thoroughly investigate it). The book description eludes that the suicide is questionable but there was very limited information on bullying laws and charging people with murder, as I would think this is a grey area in law (?!) Over all I would say I felt neutral about this book. The topic was upsetting and the people unlikable (as is the case in most true crime books!) because no one in this family could seem to get out of their own way but I would only say neutral because I felt it really lacked depth. I read a lot of true crime so I was expecting a good work up to the crime followed by a thorough investigation. If you're just looking to pass time with a quick easy read, then I would recommend it but if you're a fan of true crime, you can do better than this book.
June 4, 2018
Although I wish the book's contents had been more tightly organized and that someone had checked for spelling and grammatical errors and typos, I still found it an important story that needed to be told. Because so many recent suicides of teens and preteens have been blamed on bullying, it is important to look at the impact of how others treat vulnerable individuals. In some respects it's probably a no-brainer to say that someone was "bullied to death" because he/she faced so much harassment and mistreatment that it was impossible to go on, and that possibly those who systematically bully someone should be held accountable. But the author is careful to point out that while all of these concerns are valid, there are many factors that go into someone's decision to take his/her own life. Relying on legal records and interviews with those who knew the young girl at the heart of this book, the author traces the challenges she faced from the beginning of her life until her death at 14. It's clear that Sherokee Harriman never had it very easy, and that her life at home was just as tumultuous as her hours at school. Like her family, though, I finished the book still wondering what exactly drove her to plunge a knife into her stomach in a public park in front of other teens. I wondered why they didn't do more. I reflected on how so many parents are sure that living in a small town provides some assurance that their children will be safe from cruelty and violence, and how social media seems to provide an opportunity to share our every thought and every insecurity with others and how some may take advantage of that vulnerability. I thought about how hard it is to know when someone is crying out for help or serious or so desperate or "done" that he/she simply cannot go on. I also pondered the systematic and constant bullying this child endured for much of her life, and how the schools she attended never seemed to address the problem. I wondered how or if Sherokee could have been saved. Despite some of its imperfections, the book raises many questions that will perhaps be explored and answered in other publications, and for those considerations, as well as my sadness at the loss of this girl who seemed to have potential and a lot of love to give, I was glad to read it. Perhaps one of the great tragedies here, though, is the fact that there are so many other teens like Sherokee out there, just looking for love, acceptance, and a friend who will have their back.
May 11, 2018
It’s always tough to read an account about a death of someone at an early age, and this book, though well written, it as tough to read as can be. At the age of fourteen, Sherokee Harriman stuck a knife into her stomach killing herself, which was ruled a suicide. However, there were some definite events, acts, and such that led up to this tragic event, and this book covers them. Sherokee was just another young girl, hoping to get through life, doing her best to succeed, wanting the things in life every other young girl wants. However, there was a lot stacked against Sherokee. She never met her father. Her family was totally dysfunctional. She was in such dire straits that she screamed she was going to kill herself many times before the actual day she did. She also was bullied by classmates and others, to the point where she could no longer take it. It is a difficult book to read, as you constantly wonder what, if anything, could have been done to prevent this loss. After reading the story, I am not sure bullying was the only cause of her death, though it may have been the final straw. In addition to this, I do not think Sherokee had a family life worth having. It is almost as if your worst nightmares have come true, as you read through the life this young girl lived.
The book is well researched and presented. I found it interesting to read about her life and dysfunctional family as well as the bullying, all of which contributed to Sherokee’s actions in the park that fateful day. This is not an easy book to read but it is one that will remain with the reader long after finishing it and can provide some good discussions. The story it tells is very real, believable and current. I think other young persons, as well as educators, parents and the general public should be encouraged to read it because it sends out a much-needed message about what some lives are like today. Definitely not what they used to be like when I was that age. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
The book is well researched and presented. I found it interesting to read about her life and dysfunctional family as well as the bullying, all of which contributed to Sherokee’s actions in the park that fateful day. This is not an easy book to read but it is one that will remain with the reader long after finishing it and can provide some good discussions. The story it tells is very real, believable and current. I think other young persons, as well as educators, parents and the general public should be encouraged to read it because it sends out a much-needed message about what some lives are like today. Definitely not what they used to be like when I was that age. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
May 22, 2018
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and Wildblue Press in exchange for an honest review.
This was a particularly tough read for me I was also bullied for a very long time just like Sherokee, luckily for me this way before the digital age.
This story is about a girl who is a victim of a broken system. Everything that could go wrong did go wrong. The school system with the so-called zero tolerance for bullying policy did nothing to stop it neither did they do anything to help her out on an educational level. The kids at school were absolutely horrible to her and the teachers weren’t much better. It’s no wonder Sherokee hated school so much.
Having gone through highschool while being bullied on a daily basis is an absolute struggle. It sure as hell was for me nobody helped me in fact I even got kicked out of school because it’s easier to remove 1 kid from the equation than to kick out an entire group of bullies.
This book is a well written account about the daily struggle that’s life for Sherokee. Sherokee didn’t stand a chance almost from the day she was born, her family did what they could to help her to no avail. Sherokee had many issues and was often misunderstood by family and friends. While I feel that the bullying added to Sherokee’s fragile mental state I don’t put the full blame on the kids who tormented her. Whenever a person commits suicide you can’t put the full blame just on one factor in the person’s life, often there are many issues that add to the situation. I totally understand her parents wanting to blame someone but you simply can’t all blame it on just the bullies. As you read this book you’ll understand why I have this opinion.
I can’t say much more since this a book you have to read yourself to fully understand the situation. This book is a must read for parents of kids that are being bullied and also for the bullies.
The author did some proper research for this book which I appreciate greatly. Judith is a gifted criminologist and true crime author. I’m looking forward to her next book!
This was a particularly tough read for me I was also bullied for a very long time just like Sherokee, luckily for me this way before the digital age.
This story is about a girl who is a victim of a broken system. Everything that could go wrong did go wrong. The school system with the so-called zero tolerance for bullying policy did nothing to stop it neither did they do anything to help her out on an educational level. The kids at school were absolutely horrible to her and the teachers weren’t much better. It’s no wonder Sherokee hated school so much.
Having gone through highschool while being bullied on a daily basis is an absolute struggle. It sure as hell was for me nobody helped me in fact I even got kicked out of school because it’s easier to remove 1 kid from the equation than to kick out an entire group of bullies.
This book is a well written account about the daily struggle that’s life for Sherokee. Sherokee didn’t stand a chance almost from the day she was born, her family did what they could to help her to no avail. Sherokee had many issues and was often misunderstood by family and friends. While I feel that the bullying added to Sherokee’s fragile mental state I don’t put the full blame on the kids who tormented her. Whenever a person commits suicide you can’t put the full blame just on one factor in the person’s life, often there are many issues that add to the situation. I totally understand her parents wanting to blame someone but you simply can’t all blame it on just the bullies. As you read this book you’ll understand why I have this opinion.
I can’t say much more since this a book you have to read yourself to fully understand the situation. This book is a must read for parents of kids that are being bullied and also for the bullies.
The author did some proper research for this book which I appreciate greatly. Judith is a gifted criminologist and true crime author. I’m looking forward to her next book!
June 7, 2018
cw// sexual assault, mental health, suicide
Every since I read Who Killed My Daughter? by Lois Duncan–probably a little younger than I should have–I’ve loved true crime books. When I received a digital copy of BULLIED TO DEATH: A Story Of Bullying, Social Media, And The Suicide Of Sherokee Harriman by Judith A. Yates from NetGalley, I was eager to begin reading.
BULLIED TO DEATH, which was published in April 2018, pieces together the life and suicide of fourteen-year-old Sherokee (pronounced Cherokee) Harriman in Tennessee. One day, Sherokee walked to her neighborhood park and stabbed herself in front of a group of peers–a group of bullies. Yates then spends the rest of the novel talking about Sherokee’s life–including her mental health issues, sexual assault, her home environment, and her struggles in school–and how her death impacted her family, friends and bullies. Throughout the narrative, we are also given posts and poems from Sherokee’s social media sites that allude to her lack of self confidence and how other kids treat her at school.
However, while the cover and book description leads readers to believe that Yates will be discussing how social media and bullying impact today’s young people–that is only a very small part of this book. Instead, we get a detailed view of all the horrors and struggles Sherokee dealt with leading up to her suicide, including sexual assault by her mother’s boyfriend, how she struggled with bipolar disorder and PTSD, how teachers showed little care in helping her progress academically, and how her family dynamics contributed to her anger issues. Despite the difficult subject matters, BULLIED TO DEATH is a quick and easy read–almost too easy for my tastes; I was able to finish in less than two days. However, the description and the cover definitely sets different expectations for readers and, as someone with an interest in social media and its impacts, was disappointing that BULLIED TO DEATH didn’t deliver.
[I received a digital, advanced reading copy from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.]
Every since I read Who Killed My Daughter? by Lois Duncan–probably a little younger than I should have–I’ve loved true crime books. When I received a digital copy of BULLIED TO DEATH: A Story Of Bullying, Social Media, And The Suicide Of Sherokee Harriman by Judith A. Yates from NetGalley, I was eager to begin reading.
BULLIED TO DEATH, which was published in April 2018, pieces together the life and suicide of fourteen-year-old Sherokee (pronounced Cherokee) Harriman in Tennessee. One day, Sherokee walked to her neighborhood park and stabbed herself in front of a group of peers–a group of bullies. Yates then spends the rest of the novel talking about Sherokee’s life–including her mental health issues, sexual assault, her home environment, and her struggles in school–and how her death impacted her family, friends and bullies. Throughout the narrative, we are also given posts and poems from Sherokee’s social media sites that allude to her lack of self confidence and how other kids treat her at school.
However, while the cover and book description leads readers to believe that Yates will be discussing how social media and bullying impact today’s young people–that is only a very small part of this book. Instead, we get a detailed view of all the horrors and struggles Sherokee dealt with leading up to her suicide, including sexual assault by her mother’s boyfriend, how she struggled with bipolar disorder and PTSD, how teachers showed little care in helping her progress academically, and how her family dynamics contributed to her anger issues. Despite the difficult subject matters, BULLIED TO DEATH is a quick and easy read–almost too easy for my tastes; I was able to finish in less than two days. However, the description and the cover definitely sets different expectations for readers and, as someone with an interest in social media and its impacts, was disappointing that BULLIED TO DEATH didn’t deliver.
[I received a digital, advanced reading copy from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.]
April 19, 2018
dates read 4/17-4/17
I love true crime books and haven't found an author since Ann Rule that I really enjoy. Like Ann, Judith Yates does a great background research to set up the body of the book. This is an excellent job of research for the history, crime, coroner, text messages, and social media. Reading this book we find out about Sherokee's childhood and what sad things that happened to her that really predicted what would happen further on. I realized also that Sherokee wasn't so innocent. There are times in book, you feel so sorry for her like when she didn't want to go to school cause of bullying, who could blame her? Good point made in this book that you use to be able to go home after school and get away from the bullying but now with social media, doesn't help. This incident actually happened in my daughter's father n law's neighborhood park. Sad true story. I was apalled by Sherokee's texts back and forth with her grandmother Rita about taking her cell to school. The language she used as she texts Rita was shocking. I could never imagine talking to my grandmother that way, so disrespectful.
The coroner report of Sherokee's death was interesting in that Sherokee couldn't have pushed the knife so far into her stomach by herself so that's questioning in my mind.
The part in the book that stood out for me was when it was brought up that we should bring back prayer in school. Don't know if would help. Kids will still bully, but that was still a good point. I can't say I enjoyed this book cause it is truly sad, but the writing and research is very good. I was very engrossed at the unbelievable story of it all.
Ann Rule "RIP"-I'm glad I found a new true crime author to watch out for. I look forward to reading more by Ms. Yates.
Thank you Net Gallery and Wild Blue Press for allowing me to review this startling novel.
RIP Sherokee
Cherie'
I look forward to receiving Wild Blue Press newsletter.
I love true crime books and haven't found an author since Ann Rule that I really enjoy. Like Ann, Judith Yates does a great background research to set up the body of the book. This is an excellent job of research for the history, crime, coroner, text messages, and social media. Reading this book we find out about Sherokee's childhood and what sad things that happened to her that really predicted what would happen further on. I realized also that Sherokee wasn't so innocent. There are times in book, you feel so sorry for her like when she didn't want to go to school cause of bullying, who could blame her? Good point made in this book that you use to be able to go home after school and get away from the bullying but now with social media, doesn't help. This incident actually happened in my daughter's father n law's neighborhood park. Sad true story. I was apalled by Sherokee's texts back and forth with her grandmother Rita about taking her cell to school. The language she used as she texts Rita was shocking. I could never imagine talking to my grandmother that way, so disrespectful.
The coroner report of Sherokee's death was interesting in that Sherokee couldn't have pushed the knife so far into her stomach by herself so that's questioning in my mind.
The part in the book that stood out for me was when it was brought up that we should bring back prayer in school. Don't know if would help. Kids will still bully, but that was still a good point. I can't say I enjoyed this book cause it is truly sad, but the writing and research is very good. I was very engrossed at the unbelievable story of it all.
Ann Rule "RIP"-I'm glad I found a new true crime author to watch out for. I look forward to reading more by Ms. Yates.
Thank you Net Gallery and Wild Blue Press for allowing me to review this startling novel.
RIP Sherokee
Cherie'
I look forward to receiving Wild Blue Press newsletter.
July 6, 2018
I was drawn to this book because of my fascination with true crime. Though I hadn't previously heard of Sherokee and what happened to her, I wanted to hear her story.
The first thing to note is that this doesn't read like a true crime at all. Instead, it reads more like a memoir of Sherokee and her family. It shows a complete picture and tells the whole story of her childhood, past, upbringing, and highly dysfunctional home life and family. It's a very sad story of abuse, mental health issues, and more. I didn't find the bullying from her peers to be extraordinary or above what many other children encounter in school. Nevertheless, it was sad and uncalled for.
Ultimately, I think her death was brought on by her personal, family, mental, and home problems more than anything else. I also found myself wondering if her death was truly intentional. I wonder if she meant to scare people and ended up hurting herself more than she intended to, resulting in her death. Sadly, we will never know.
One great thing about this book was how transparent all of her friends and family members were. They were very forthcoming with information, even when it didn't shed the best light on them at all.
Negative aspects of the book: I found that it was filled with a lot of unnecessary information and repetitive statistics. For instance, we were constantly bombarded with Sherokee's grades and report cards, which I don't feel were necessary for the story past the first mention or so. The excessive use of definitions and statistics where unneeded came off as a bit amateur too.
All in all, this was a sad read, but I'm glad I know her story now and that her legacy can live on through its writing. Though it wasn't the best written book I've read, I do feel a sense of understanding now about this young girl's short, tragic life.
The first thing to note is that this doesn't read like a true crime at all. Instead, it reads more like a memoir of Sherokee and her family. It shows a complete picture and tells the whole story of her childhood, past, upbringing, and highly dysfunctional home life and family. It's a very sad story of abuse, mental health issues, and more. I didn't find the bullying from her peers to be extraordinary or above what many other children encounter in school. Nevertheless, it was sad and uncalled for.
Ultimately, I think her death was brought on by her personal, family, mental, and home problems more than anything else. I also found myself wondering if her death was truly intentional. I wonder if she meant to scare people and ended up hurting herself more than she intended to, resulting in her death. Sadly, we will never know.
One great thing about this book was how transparent all of her friends and family members were. They were very forthcoming with information, even when it didn't shed the best light on them at all.
Negative aspects of the book: I found that it was filled with a lot of unnecessary information and repetitive statistics. For instance, we were constantly bombarded with Sherokee's grades and report cards, which I don't feel were necessary for the story past the first mention or so. The excessive use of definitions and statistics where unneeded came off as a bit amateur too.
All in all, this was a sad read, but I'm glad I know her story now and that her legacy can live on through its writing. Though it wasn't the best written book I've read, I do feel a sense of understanding now about this young girl's short, tragic life.
September 10, 2018
This book was so sad. I know that bullying and suicide are often connected in teens and I know that both are serious issues that need to be looked into further but to read it with the back story behind everything makes for a very tragic read. I liked how the author showed everything leading up to the death of Sherokee Harriman, who unfortunately killed herself in front of her classmates because of the bulling she faced. This book discussed the fourteen year old's home life and struggles she faced there along with the bullying she endured at her school with all of this stacked against her she felt she had no other option and chose to end her life. I did expect this book to focus more on Sherokee and what happened to her however while most of the book did just that some of it almost turned into a lecture about bullying on social media and how it can have consequences. This book also talks
about bullying in general in different social classes, cultures, and genders, however it mainly focus on the one cause but it was nice to get some more information on this terrible epidemic. This was a very sad read but hopefully this book will stop other kids from going down those same footsteps and getting help instead. I really feel bad for the family and I'm glad they chose to share their story with the world. I did like how the author took a serious subject but was able to make it a fresh read.
about bullying in general in different social classes, cultures, and genders, however it mainly focus on the one cause but it was nice to get some more information on this terrible epidemic. This was a very sad read but hopefully this book will stop other kids from going down those same footsteps and getting help instead. I really feel bad for the family and I'm glad they chose to share their story with the world. I did like how the author took a serious subject but was able to make it a fresh read.
March 13, 2019
Bullied To Death: A Story Of Bullying, Social Media, And The Suicide Of Sherokee Harriman by Judith A Yates
This is a prevalent story for everyone to read especially parents with all the bullying/cyber bullying going on nowadays. It's a very sad story of how everyone in Sherokees life failed her, her mother, grandmother/legal guardian and the school system.
Sherokee was your normal 14 year old teenager. She loved the color pink, doing her hair and nails, she wanted her own salon one day.
Her favorite thing to do was talk about boys with her friend. And of course fighting with her older sister.
Sherokee did not have it easy growing up by any means. She was removed from her mother's care at a very young age by CPS. Her grandmother was awarded full custody, which was not any better.
Feeling neglected and unloved she turned to anyone for attention, even if it meant a nineteen year old man
All she wanted was to have friends, fit in and most importantly be popular. Unfortunately she was constantly picked on, pushed, thrown into lockers, making fun of her looks. Until one day she couldn't take it any longer and took her life.
This book really points out the dangers of bullying and the consequences of the act. This book had a huge impact on me and I will not be forgetting about it anytime soon.
This is a prevalent story for everyone to read especially parents with all the bullying/cyber bullying going on nowadays. It's a very sad story of how everyone in Sherokees life failed her, her mother, grandmother/legal guardian and the school system.
Sherokee was your normal 14 year old teenager. She loved the color pink, doing her hair and nails, she wanted her own salon one day.
Her favorite thing to do was talk about boys with her friend. And of course fighting with her older sister.
Sherokee did not have it easy growing up by any means. She was removed from her mother's care at a very young age by CPS. Her grandmother was awarded full custody, which was not any better.
Feeling neglected and unloved she turned to anyone for attention, even if it meant a nineteen year old man
All she wanted was to have friends, fit in and most importantly be popular. Unfortunately she was constantly picked on, pushed, thrown into lockers, making fun of her looks. Until one day she couldn't take it any longer and took her life.
This book really points out the dangers of bullying and the consequences of the act. This book had a huge impact on me and I will not be forgetting about it anytime soon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2019
So sad
This is a heart breaking story. I have never met her or any of the people involved. I have only seen the pictures and read about her in this book. I can say that in my opinion Sherokee was a very beautiful girl. I would have loved to look like her when I was a teenager. Middle School was the worst 3 years of my life. Being unique or less than what is considered "perfect" means being tormented and ostracized by others. I have made many mistakes & bad decisions. I got hurt and I have wanted to give up. I learned how to survive because I kept trying. I don't really remember those people that I thought were so important. I was able to live without those boys that I thought I would die without. I no longer worry about what people think about me. I love my husband and my family. I am good at a job that I enjoy. I am proud to say that I sometimes actually save lives. I know without a doubt that I make a difference. When I was a teenager, I would have never believed that all this was possible. I wish these troubled, hurt kids had the chance to grow up and know happiness. Stop bullying!
This is a heart breaking story. I have never met her or any of the people involved. I have only seen the pictures and read about her in this book. I can say that in my opinion Sherokee was a very beautiful girl. I would have loved to look like her when I was a teenager. Middle School was the worst 3 years of my life. Being unique or less than what is considered "perfect" means being tormented and ostracized by others. I have made many mistakes & bad decisions. I got hurt and I have wanted to give up. I learned how to survive because I kept trying. I don't really remember those people that I thought were so important. I was able to live without those boys that I thought I would die without. I no longer worry about what people think about me. I love my husband and my family. I am good at a job that I enjoy. I am proud to say that I sometimes actually save lives. I know without a doubt that I make a difference. When I was a teenager, I would have never believed that all this was possible. I wish these troubled, hurt kids had the chance to grow up and know happiness. Stop bullying!
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