Theodork by Jessica Green
Good book, good cover. When is the last time that I said that! But this book from Scholastic Press is a funny book about a serious issue that is genuinely entertaining.
Theodore is branded on his first day of high school. He is lining up with all the other year 7s, not knowing a soul. When his name is called, he shuffles forward. A foot appears from nowhere and suddenly Theodore finds himself on top of the teacher who has landed on the ground. Someone from the crowd calls out Theo-dork and the nickname sticks.
From there the story goes through Danno’s first year of high school. He is bullied and absolutely miserable. His parents only make the situation worse. So Danno struggles to find his own niche. On the way he discovers talents and skills that he never suspected.
What I particularly liked about the story is the scene late in the book where Danno is given the opportunity for revenge on those who have made him so miserable. Realistically, he takes up the opportunity, but quickly regrets the pain and embarrassment that was caused.
Many books about school life deal with the issue of bullying, but this is one of the best because victim is empowered by his own strength of character and personal growth.
