
Reach for this book if you suspect your child is using aggression or humor to mask deep seated feelings of being misunderstood or lonely at school. It tells the story of Kevin, a self proclaimed school bully who finds an unexpected outlet for his emotions through found poetry. The narrative explores the complex transition from being the person who causes pain to being the person who seeks redemption. Using a clever verse format, it tackles themes of identity and forgiveness in a way that feels authentic to the middle school experience. Parents will appreciate how it humanizes the bully without excusing his actions, providing a realistic look at how creativity can bridge the gap between a child's tough exterior and their sensitive heart.
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Sign in to write a reviewThemes of loneliness, social isolation, and the fear of being exposed.
Mild schoolyard name-calling and insults common in middle school settings.
The book deals with bullying and social isolation through a secular, direct lens. The resolution is realistic and hopeful, focusing on restorative justice and personal growth rather than a magical erasure of past mistakes.
A 10 to 12 year old boy who is perhaps known for being 'difficult' or 'the class clown' and needs to see that sensitivity and creativity are not signs of weakness. It is perfect for reluctant readers who prefer white space on the page.
Parents should be aware that Kevin does deface library books to create his art, which is a great jumping off point for a discussion on respect for property versus the need for self expression. A parent might see their child get into trouble for 'unkindness' at school or notice their child becoming increasingly defensive and secretive about their hobbies.
Younger middle grade readers (9-10) will focus on the 'mean kid' getting a taste of his own medicine. Older readers (11-12) will better grasp the nuance of Kevin's internal identity crisis and the irony of the found poetry.
Unlike many books that focus on the victim, this story is told from the perspective of the bully, providing a rare and empathetic look at the 'why' behind the behavior without being preachy.
Kevin is a seventh grader who maintains his social standing by being a jerk. He spends his time 'borrowing' things and making life miserable for others. His secret outlet is 'found poetry,' which he creates by ripping pages out of library books and circling words. When his poetry notebook is stolen by a bigger bully and posted all over the school, Kevin's world flips. He becomes the target, eventually finding an unlikely mentor in the school librarian and a path toward genuine apology.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.