Rate this book

How To Beat The Bully Without Really Trying (2012)

by Scott Starkey(Favorite Author)

3.86 of 5 Votes: 2

ISBN

1442416858 (ISBN13: 9781442416857)

languge

English

genre

Middle Grade & Children's

publisher

Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books

series

Rodney Rathbone

review 1: I really WANTED to like this book--I loved the premise of a kid being an accidental bully-beater. However, I ended up being very disappointed. I was constantly left hoping for characters with more depth. Unfortunately, character portrayals throughout the book were very stereotypical and one-dimensional, lacking the complexity that would have truly drawn me into the story and engaged my emotions.For example, the bullies were simply portrayed as really mean kids with no evidence of redeeming qualities. The protagonist's teacher and a recess aide were equally cruel and vindictive, going to ridiculous lengths to get revenge on the protagonist throughout the story, even though their motivation to do so seemed rather weak. While I'm guessing that kids may enjoy the book more tha... moren I did, I was pretty disappointed.
review 2: This book was funny and definitely captured the voice of its main character (Rodney Rathbone). The whole feel of the book is like an after school special complete with a tinge of boy/girl issues, lots of friends, over the top scenarios, crazy teachers…. Rodney unbelievably escapes various bullying incidents through crazy scenarios, but his classmates think he's super tough and smart. The book drags on too long for my tastes, but I think average 4th-6th graders will find it funny and engaging. less

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