Winter 2009 Kids' List
“Eric, the new kid in school, is befriended by the impossibly perfect and charming Griffin, who conceals a mean streak. When other kids are victimized, Eric must choose whether or not to intervene. Many kids will recognize this situation, and Bystander makes a great launching pad for discussions of bullying and its consequences.”
— Kelley Drahushuk, The Spotty Dog, Hudson, NY
Description
Eric is the new kid in seventh grade. Griffin wants to be his friend. When you're new in town, it's hard to know who to hang out with--and who to avoid. Griffin seems cool, confident, and popular.
But something isn't right about Griffin. He always seems to be in the middle of bad things. And if Griffin doesn't like you, you'd better watch your back. There might be a target on it.
As Eric gets drawn deeper into Griffin's dark world, he begins to see the truth about Griffin: He's a liar, a bully, a thief. Eric wants to break away, do the right thing. But in one shocking moment, he goes from being a bystander . . . to the bully's next victim.
About the Author
James Preller is the author of the popular Jigsaw Jones mystery books, which have sold more than 10 million copies since 1998. He is also the author of "Six Innings," an ALA Notable Book, and "Mighty Casey," his own twist on the classic poem, "Casey at the Bat." In addition to writing full-time, Preller plays in a men's hardball league and coaches Little League. He compares coaching kids to "trying to hold the attention of a herd of earthworms." He lives in Delmar, New York, with his wife, three children, cats and dog.