Review| For No Reason by Kathleen Gauer

Though returning to school looks different this year, many of the same social implications of school still apply. Bullying for instance, can still exist in a virtual environment, especially with the growing influence of social media on our children’s lives. No matter the type of bullying, one thing is for certain. We need anti-bullying books in classrooms, and in our homes.

I recently had the opportunity to read “For No Reason” by Kathleen Gauer.

The story centers on a girl named Jamie who is being bullied by a boy in her class. While the school doesn’t encourage the bullying, it still happens, and even Jamie gets some of the blame some times. But this boy does mean things “For No Reason”.

I was thoroughly impressed with this anti-bullying book.

The illustrations by Sari Richter are unique and well crafted. It’s nice to see something traditional in a world where digital illustration has become the new norm. There are new details throughout the book that you notice the second or third time through. Each illustration contributes well to the story. And the story is well crafted and plotted. It’s a great example of a solid, well written, independent children’s book.

I’ve read quite a few anti-bullying books, and most talk about standing up or speaking out against bullies. In the illustrations, these approaches seem to be taken. However, they don’t seem to have much of an effect. Even though the school that the children attend is an “anti-bully” environment (as noted by signage throughout the school), the bullying is still happening.

This book offers a unique solution to bullying.

It suggests disarming a bully with kindness. If someone does something unkind “For No Reason”, do something kind “For No Reason”.

The book also encourages kids to take teasing in stride when possible, to own teasing and turn the jokes around in their favor. Rather than taking offense, which most bullies feed on, this book encourages kids to turn towards a joke and not let it bother them. I personally think this is a great strategy, as it neutralizes the bully’s behavior.

Would I recommend this book?

Yes. I think this book should be in classrooms and in homes. I think this straegy for dealing with bullies is unique and could actually be helpful for a lot of kids. Overall, I am impressed with the work of Kathleen Gauer and am looking forward to reading more of her work.

If you would like to purchase “For No Reason” or any of Kathleen Gauer’s other books, you can find them at www.skippingstonepress.net.

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