10+ Best Books About Bullying for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Navigating the complex world of friendships and school life can be challenging for any 10-year-old, especially when bullying comes into play. That's why finding the right resources to help children understand and cope with these issues is crucial. Our curated list of books about bullying for 10-year-olds offers stories and insights that can provide both comfort and guidance. Whether you're a parent, educator, or young reader, keep reading to discover a variety of books about bullying for 10-year-olds that can make a real difference.

Fun Books About Bullying for 10-Year-Olds

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows Auggie Pullman, a boy born with facial differences, as he attends school for the first time in fifth grade. Auggie deals with bullying and struggles to be seen for who he really is.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming and inspiring tale that encourages empathy, kindness, and acceptance, which are crucial lessons for children at this age.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are facing their own challenges of fitting in and those who enjoy stories of triumph over adversity.

• Blubber by Judy Blume
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The book explores the life of Jill Brenner and her classmates, focusing on the bullying of Linda Fischer, who is nicknamed "Blubber." The story delves into the dynamics of peer pressure and the moral struggles of standing up to friends.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a realistic look at the complexities of peer relationships and the consequences of bullying, helping readers understand the importance of compassion and courage.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are navigating friendships and peer pressure, and those who appreciate stories with moral dilemmas.

• The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes, illustrated by Louis Slobodkin
  • Genre(s): Classic, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story follows Wanda Petronski, a Polish girl in an American school who is teased by her classmates for wearing the same faded blue dress every day. Wanda claims to have a hundred dresses at home, leading to unexpected consequences.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a timeless tale that teaches about the impact of bullying and the value of forgiveness and understanding.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy classic stories with deep moral lessons and those who might feel different or misunderstood.

• Star Girl by Jerry Spinelli
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel introduces readers to Stargirl Caraway, an extremely unconventional and cheerful new student who becomes both admired and ostracized for her uniqueness at Mica High School.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates individuality and the courage to be oneself, even when faced with ridicule and loneliness.
  • Perfect for: Those who feel they stand out from the crowd and anyone interested in stories about self-expression and personal growth.

• Confessions of a Former Bully by Trudy Ludwig, illustrated by Beth Adams
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Educational
  • Synopsis: Told from the perspective of a girl who used to be a bully, this book provides insights into why people bully and how they can change. It includes practical advice and strategies for dealing with bullying.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective from the bully’s point of view, promoting understanding and empathy, and provides useful tools to handle bullying situations.
  • Perfect for: Children who have experienced either side of bullying and educators or parents looking for resources to discuss bullying behavior and prevention.

Educational Books About Bullying for 10-Year-Olds

• Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This poignant book tells the story of Chloe, who shuns the new girl, Maya, when she tries to make friends. Maya is bullied and isolated, and Chloe later regrets her actions when Maya leaves the school.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, social skills, consequences of actions
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully illustrates the ripple effect of our actions and the lost opportunities for kindness.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are learning the importance of compassion and the impact of their choices on others.

• The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig, illustrated by Patrice Barton
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows Brian, a boy who feels invisible at school until a new student arrives and notices him. This friendship changes how Brian sees himself and how others see him.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-esteem, friendship dynamics, inclusion
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses the feelings of being overlooked and the power of friendship and inclusion.
  • Perfect for: Children who feel left out or overlooked and those wanting to understand more about inclusivity and friendship.

• Enemy Pie by Derek Munson, illustrated by Tara Calahan King
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Humor
  • Synopsis: It's a summer that starts with a new enemy for one little boy, but his dad has the perfect remedy: Enemy Pie. However, spending a day with his enemy has unexpected results.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, relationship management, conflict resolution
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and engaging story that teaches valuable lessons about turning enemies into friends.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are dealing with conflicts and those who enjoy stories with a humorous twist.

• My Secret Bully by Trudy Ludwig, illustrated by Abigail Marble
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Monica is bullied by her friend Katie in subtle ways that adults don’t always see. With help from her mom, Monica learns how to stand up for herself and regain her confidence.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-confidence, understanding relational aggression, advocacy
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the less obvious forms of bullying and provides strategies for dealing with them.
  • Perfect for: Children experiencing subtle or relational bullying and those who need help in advocating for themselves.

• Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell, illustrated by David Catrow
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Humor
  • Synopsis: Molly Lou Melon is short and clumsy, has buck teeth, and a voice that sounds like a bullfrog being squeezed by a boa constrictor. She is bullied at her new school, but she decides to stand tall and proud, just as her grandmother advised.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-acceptance, resilience, courage
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages readers to embrace their uniqueness and face bullying with courage and self-confidence.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are learning to accept themselves and those facing challenges in new environments.

Challenging Books About Bullying for 10-Year-Olds

• Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the adventures of two boys, Maxwell Kane, a large, somewhat slow, but kind-hearted boy, and Kevin Avery, his brilliant but physically disabled friend. Together, they become "Freak the Mighty" and face challenges including bullying and personal growth.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book addresses complex themes such as disability, friendship, and acceptance, using a rich vocabulary and layered narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: It illustrates the power of friendship and resilience in the face of adversity, offering a compelling narrative that challenges readers to think about differences and strengths.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who enjoy stories about overcoming challenges and unlikely friendships.

• The Misfits by James Howe
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story centers on a group of seventh graders who feel they don’t fit in. Led by Bobby Goodspeed, the narrator, they create a "No-Name Party" for the student council elections to stand up against name-calling and bullying.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles serious issues like bullying, identity, and social justice through sophisticated themes and thought-provoking dialogue.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book promotes understanding and tolerance, encouraging readers to think critically about inclusivity and the impact of their words.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in social change and those who feel like outsiders.

• Loser by Jerry Spinelli
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the life of Donald Zinkoff, who is considered a "loser" by his peers due to his clumsiness, poor academic performance, and unfailing enthusiasm. Despite various setbacks, Zinkoff’s optimistic outlook endures.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative style and point of view challenge readers to question societal norms and the definition of success and failure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on perseverance and individuality, encouraging readers to find value in their unique traits and to empathize with others.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are struggling with fitting in or who are often misunderstood by their peers.

• The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, this novel follows 11-year-old Parvana who must disguise herself as a boy to support her family after her father is unjustly arrested.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex geopolitical issues and themes of survival in extreme circumstances, layered with emotional depth and cultural context.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a window into a different culture and the resilience required to overcome oppressive environments. It also raises awareness about global issues and human rights.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in historical contexts and those looking to understand more about resilience and courage in the face of adversity.

• Rules by Cynthia Lord
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story centers on Catherine, a 12-year-old girl, who wants a normal life which seems impossible while caring for her autistic brother, David, and befriending Jason, a paraplegic. She navigates the complexities of friendships and family relationships while trying to establish her own identity.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book deals with themes of disability, normalcy, and acceptance, challenging readers with its emotional depth and moral dilemmas.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches empathy and the importance of understanding and accepting people’s differences, providing a thoughtful look at the challenges and rewards of close relationships.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are dealing with family responsibilities or who are learning to accept and celebrate differences in themselves and others.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

When diving into books about bullying, especially for 10-year-olds, it's essential to engage with the material actively and thoughtfully. Here are some exercises that can not only improve reading habits but also enhance understanding and empathy. These activities are designed to be both fun and educational, making reading a more enriching experience.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit and helps complete books in a manageable way.
  • Tips: Start with small goals and gradually increase as you get more comfortable with the pace.

• Discuss with Friends
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends who are reading it too.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and provides different perspectives on the story.
  • Tips: Form a small reading group to discuss thoughts and feelings about the book weekly.

• Create a Story Map
  • What it is: Draw a map or timeline of the main events in the story.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the plot and the relationships between events and characters.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to mark important events and turning points in the story.

• Character Diary Entries
  • What it is: Write diary entries from the perspective of different characters in the book.
  • How it helps: Develops empathy and a deeper understanding of each character’s motives and feelings.
  • Tips: Choose characters that differ from each other to explore various viewpoints and emotional responses.

• Question and Answer Exchange
  • What it is: Write questions about the book and swap with a friend to answer.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and detailed exploration of the book’s themes and messages.
  • Tips: Think of both straightforward and open-ended questions to challenge each other’s understanding.

• Illustrate the Scenes
  • What it is: Draw your favorite scenes or how you imagine certain moments in the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances creative expression and helps connect visually with the story.
  • Tips: Share your drawings with others and explain why you chose those particular scenes.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine can transform the way you interact with books about bullying, making the reading experience more engaging and insightful. Not only do these activities promote better reading habits, but they also foster a deeper understanding of important social issues. Happy reading!