Summary: Bully B.E.A.N.S. tells the story of Maxine, a girl who bullies her classmates—especially Winston, whom she intimidates into doing her homework and giving up his lunch money. While the other students disapprove of her behavior, they’re too scared to speak up. That changes when one student confides in her mom and receives a bag of “bully beans,” which symbolize the courage to stand up to bullying. With new confidence and support, the students begin to stand together and challenge Maxine’s behavior.
Description: This updated version of Bully B.E.A.N.S. simplifies and strengthens Julia Cook’s original text while featuring more engaging illustrations. The story clearly defines bullying and offers strategies for students whether they are being bullied, witnessing it, or realizing they might be engaging in it themselves. The acronym B.E.A.N.S. (Bullies Everywhere Are Now Stopped) and the use of “magic” jelly beans make the topic accessible and empowering for young children. Practical tips at the end help children understand how to take safe, appropriate action.
Reviews and Considerations: Educators and counselors consistently praise this book for its realistic examples, student appeal, and actionable strategies. Many highlight how it encourages empathy and provides a child-friendly way to start difficult conversations. The updated illustrations and shortened text were well received, though one reviewer found the illustrations unappealing and confusing. Overall, the book is widely regarded as a must-have for classrooms and counseling offices, offering helpful guidance for targets, bystanders, and even bullies themselves.
