The Survival Guide to Bullying: Written by a Teen

“I know what it’s like to be hated for no reason... and to feel alone with no end in sight.” Mayrock’s debut, first self-published as an e-book in 2014, offers earnest advice for those struggling with bullying. Quizzes framed as chat exchanges, bullet points, and Mayrock’s “roems” (rap poems) help walk readers through types of bullying, surviving “in the trenches,” self-acceptance, and taking action when necessary. Readers may recognize their own struggles in her emotionally charged verse (“I’ve been broken/ Bruised/ Stabbed and subdued/ Submerged in darkness/ Told there would be no light”), and while Mayrock acknowledges that her suggestions won’t instantly solve readers’ bullying problems, she offers a range of ideas (such as embracing hobbies, expanding social circles, and unplugging from the Internet) that may help make the light at the end of the tunnel feel a bit closer. Ages 10–up. Agent: Jay Kramer. (June)