He’s Not Just Teasing!

A tale about the fragile friendships of upper elementary and middle school kids and their willingness to stand up for others.

Malcolm has a problem. And his name is Joe. A speedster on the soccer field, Malcolm’s energy and athleticism are a definite plus. But his high-spirited demeanor creates problems in the classroom, where sitting still and staying focused are the name of the game. Malcolm frequently draws the ire of his teacher and the good-natured ribbing of his buddies because he’s an excitable scatterbrain. The jokes and laughs at his expense don’t bother Malcolm too much. He knows it’s all in good fun, and it sometimes even teaches him valuable lessons. But the jokes and snark he hears from Joe are no laughing matter. Joe ruthlessly cuts Malcolm down any chance he gets. He embarrasses him, taunts him and bullies him.

Every time Joe targets Malcolm for ridicule, Malcolm’s friends do nothing. They are silent bystanders who don’t defend him, and Malcolm is left to wonder why. Will Malcolm be able to summon enough courage to ask for their help? Will anyone stand up for him, or will Malcolm have to advocate for himself? He’s Not Just Teasing is a tale about bullying, the fragile friendships of boys, the willingness to stand up for others and the power of kindness.