TJ Zaps the Freeze Out: Stopping the Silent Treatment

Gr 2–5—In these early chapter books, TJ Trapper learns how to deal with several different types of bullying situations, including social, cyber, silent treatment, and more. In each case, he seeks advice from his well-intentioned but misinformed babysitter, his high-school-guidance-counselor father, and his friends. TJ is able to successfully deal with most bullies, but in one realistic case, he is unable to be friends with a bully who refuses to admit he was wrong. TJ is an engaging and down-to-earth character surrounded by a full cast of well-developed supporting figures. Kids will relate to the stories and the black-and-white cartoon illustrations. Each book outlines all of the steps to follow so that children can resolve the issues on their own, as well as what to do when those steps don't work. Helpful terms, definitions, and further resources are included.—Terry Ann Lawler, Burton Barr Library, Phoenix, AZ