The Ant Bully

Summary:

This is the tale of Lucas and his struggle to not be bullied anymore, and to not take out his anger on his neighborhood ants. Sid the Bully would not leave Lucas alone, so in turn Lucas would take out his aggression on ants. One day a wizard turned Lucas into the size of the ant and he was forced to live the life of an ant. He finally felt bad for picking on them. Finally when Lucas was returned to his normal state, Sid the Bully was turned into ant size! Lucas was hoping that Sid would realize his bullying ways were horrible and wrong.

About the Author: John Nickle

This John Nickle book was turned into a children's film as well. He wrote this book from the perspective of a bullied child. Nickle used this book as an outlet for his past and a voice for the bullied child. Some of his other work includes: TV Rex and Things That Are Most in the World.He currently lives in Brooklyn, New York with his wife. 

John Nickle

Theme/Skills: Bullying, Character Education,Non-fiction, Fantasy

Grade Level: K-4

Pre-Reading Activity:

Start the discussion with students if they've ever been bullied, been a bully or have witness someone being bullied. If students can handle it, begin to discuss feelings and what is right versus what is wrong.

Post-Reading Activity:

After reading the story, as students who they think was right. Is it right to bully a peer? Discuss why Lucas bullied the ants because in turn he was being bullied. Discuss with students that sometimes the biggest bully is the most insecure.

Reflection:

I love stories about children and them overcoming bullies. I do feel that sometimes students throw out the word "bullied" too often, but with cyber bullying nothing can be overlooked. Children need to find out the root of why people become bullies and this can help them prevent these issues.