How to Stand Up to Bullying explores the multifaceted nature of bullying, offering practical tools and empathetic insights to confront and redirect these behaviors for readers of all ages. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I wrote, How to Stand Up to Bullying, during a raw moment in my life in which I allowed everything to pour out without holding back, from experiences in my youth to what I’ve learned along the way as an adult. The project, at first, was my personal way of just getting out what I held inside as something therapeutic. When I went back and reread what I wrote, I felt the need to publish it as soon as possible as it was something bigger than me and everyone could benefit from reading.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about bullying?
A misconception is that bullying is a phase in youth believed they will eventually grow out of and parents tend to shrug it off since they may have gone through bullying themselves as children. Some children may require more assistance in standing up for themselves, but if they don’t have the support they won’t always be successful.
What is one piece of advice that someone else gave you about bullying that has stayed with you today?
My mom would tell me when I was young to walk away and that “sticks and stones may break my bones, but names can never hurt me.” The common phrase is not entirely true since name-calling does hurt emotionally and leaves deep scars.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your book?
I hope readers take the subject matter series in what leads to bullying in the first place in order for everyone to have a part in standing up to it.
Bullying. Something that is done every second, daily. Don’t need a statistic to be told otherwise. Many don’t even realize they are a constant victim of bullying, as it tends to get buried as an underlying emotion. Many don’t realize they are actually a bully themselves. There are several references for parents to go to in order to help their children stand up against it, but there’s not much for adults or resources depicting why a bully is a bully in the first place. That’s the first step. Before we all can stand up to bullying, we must first understand why a bully bullies to begin with.
Bullying manifests in a multitude of ways, extending beyond the stereotypical playground tyrant hurling insults. In “How to Stand Up to Bullying,” author M.C. Ryder goes beyond merely defining the term. Ryder explores the various manifestations of bullying and attempts to unravel the origin stories of bullies. It’s an exploration grounded in empathy and understanding, seeking not only to define but to comprehend the underlying motivations of bullying.
The essence of this book is not merely to provide insight into bullies but to serve as a comprehensive guide for victims of bullying. It offers a roadmap to navigate those perilous situations when one finds oneself targeted. The crux of Ryder’s argument is that your response to bullying, whatever it may be, is pivotal in determining whether the aggression escalates, continues, or ceases altogether.
“How to Stand Up to Bullying” is marked by its simplicity and direct approach. With a first-person narrative that adds a personal touch, the author establishes a deep connection with readers, further strengthened by the integration of personal stories. Bullying, a subject particularly relevant in today’s society, given its connection to tragic incidents in schools, demands a delicate and considered approach. Ryder succeeds in this regard, offering a thought-provoking conversation starter that explores not only the formation of a bully but the means to guide them onto a more compassionate path.
Despite its brevity, this book is far from superficial. It can be absorbed in a single hour, but its concise chapters deliver substantial impact. There are two key takeaways: first, that bullying is not innate but learned behavior; and second, bullies seek visibility and recognition. These insights are presented with clarity and resonate deeply.
The universal relevance of “How to Stand Up to Bullying” is one of its great strengths. It’s not aimed at a specific demographic because bullying permeates all facets of life, from schools to workplaces and even religious institutions. Ryder accentuates that the stakes increase with age; where a school altercation may lead to the principal’s office, a similar conflict in adulthood may result in legal trouble. Therefore, the book serves as an essential guide for anyone wishing to defuse a bullying situation before it escalates.
Parents may find particular value in this book, as childhood often sows the seeds of bullying. By understanding the pain underlying these behaviors, parents can equip their children to stand up to bullies and ensure they don’t tread that path themselves.
“How to Stand Up to Bullying” by M.C. Ryder is a compelling read that addresses a timely and sensitive issue with care, insight, and practical wisdom. It offers readers not only an understanding of bullies but tools to confront and redirect these behaviors. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, or simply someone looking to understand this complex issue better, this book holds valuable lessons for all.
LITERARY TITAN 