The Recess Queen

Reach for this book when your child is navigating the tricky social waters of the school playground, whether they are feeling intimidated by a dominant peer or struggling to share power themselves. It provides a vibrant, rhythmic vocabulary for discussing playground dynamics and the difference between leading and bullying. Through the story of Mean Jean and the irrepressible Katie Sue, children learn that kindness and inclusion are more powerful than intimidation. This story is particularly effective for preschoolers and early elementary students because it uses exaggerated, non-threatening humor to tackle a serious subject. It focuses on the emotional themes of standing up for yourself and the transformative power of an invitation to play. Parents will appreciate how it models a proactive, non-violent solution to conflict, showing that even the toughest 'recess queens' can become friends when given a chance to join the fun.