Book reviews
Seeing gender: An illustrated guide to identity and expression
Review by Abigail Freeland, Policy Analyst
Whether LGBTQ+, cisgender, or nonbinary, a must-read for curious people who care about how we see and talk about gender and sexuality in the 21st century.
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Seeking civility: How leaders, managers & HR can create a workplace free of bullying
Review by Dr Chris Taua of Pumahara Consultants – Personal and Professional Development Specialists
Written from the author's own experiences as a consultant focused on workplace bullying and positive workplaces.
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The little tiger with the big temper: A story of mindfulness, meditation and conscious communication
Review by Faith McGregor, parent.
This book can help adults navigate and soothe a child's challenging emotions and to introduce to children the benefits of mindfulness and self-regulation.
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Step up! My anti-bullying activity book
Review by Jacoba Glenny, Years 6, 7 and 8 Teacher
This activity book provides a wide-ranging set of activities for a child to unpack their experiences of bullying.
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Can we talk?: Seven principles for managing difficult conversations at work
Review by Fiona Robinson-Morey, Organisational Communications Manager
Can We Talk? outlines how to lead tough conversations and how to develop better, more meaningful relationships at work.
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The savvy ally: A guide for becoming a skilled LGBTQ+ advocate
Review by Meg Nelis, Learner Advisor
If you’re interested in being an effective ally to the LGBTQ+ communities then put this book on your required-reading list.
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The bully, the bullied and the not so innocent bystander
Review by Rachel Walker, School Teacher
Parenting educator Barbara Coloroso reveals the dynamics that give rise to bullying and what parents, schools, and communities can do to stop, heal, and prevent it.
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My shadow is pink
Review by Jack, mum Elissa Jordan and grandparents.
My Shadow is Pink is about a young boy, born with a pink shadow that loves princess, dresses & "things not for boys".
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Mophead Tu: The Queen's Poem
Review by Ari Prakash
From the sinking islands in the South Seas to the smoggy streets of London, this is a thought-provoking take on colonial histories and one poet's journey to bridge the divide.
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Mophead: How your difference makes a difference
Review by Deb Marsden, Guidance Counsellor & Secondary School teacher
An inspirational graphic memoir, full of wry humour, as NZ’s bestselling Poet Laureate tells the true story of a how her difference made a difference.
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Life isn’t binary: On being both, beyond and in-between
Review by Jennifer Huddleston, Lead of Relationships and Operations, Sticks ‘n Stones
This book looks at how non-binary methods of thought can be applied to all aspects of life, and offer new and greater ways of understanding ourselves and how we relate to others.
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How to stop homophobic and biphobic bullying: A practical whole-school approach
Review by Richard Everson, Teacher Aide and LGBT member/supporter
A teachers’ guide to challenging homophobic and biphobic bullying offers unique insights to address the issue at its core.
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The prettiest
Review by Imogen Crooks, Secondary school student
A novel about about standing up for yourself and those around you.
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Teine Sāmoa
Reviewed by Kirsten Edie, Secondary School Teacher
This resource aims to develop the cultural confidence of NZ teachers in order to better support our tamaiti in succeeding as proud teine and tama Sāmoa.
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The boy at the back of the class
Review by Shahin Najak, recent University graduate
Told with heart and humour, this story is a child's perspective on the refugee crisis, highlighting the importance of friendship and kindness in a world that doesn't always make sense.
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The teacher’s guide to resolving school bullying
Review by Teri McMullan, Year 11 Dean and Teacher
This practical book helps teachers better understand the causes of bullying, and provides them with the tools to develop pupil-led anti-bullying campaigns.
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Out on the Shelves
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
An online resource collecting books and literature by rainbow authors featuring rainbow stories.
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Workplace bullying: A costly business phenomenon
Review by Dr Katrina McChesney, Senior Lecturer in Initial Teacher Education, University of Waikato
An updated and revised edition of this book supported by Needham’s Legacy Trust.
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Mastering civility: A manifesto for the workplace
Review by Reece Palmer
Christine Porath shows how people can enhance their influence and effectiveness with civility.
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Just work: Get s*it done, fast and fair
Review by Sophie Jackson, Knowledge, Resources and Information Manager
How we can recognize and eliminate workplace injustice, and transform our careers and organizations in the process.
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Creating a drama-free workplace: The insider’s guide to managing conflict, incivility and mistrust
Review by Sabrina Fernandez, Registered Nurse
Maravelas notes knowing how to transform conflict into collaboration affects the outcome of every interaction, challenge, and opportunity.
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Rick
Review by Maya Russell, Secondary Student
Award-winning author Alex Gino explores what it means to search for your own place in the world and the importance of having good people around you. .
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Fish in a tree
Reviewed by Bodhi Hellesoe, Intermediate student
An uplifting novel that will speak to anyone who’s ever thought there was something wrong with them because they didn’t fit in.
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Gracefully Grayson
Review by Becky Essery, Intermediate school teacher
A novel about identity, self-esteem, and friendship shines with the strength of a young person's spirit and the enduring power of acceptance.
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Fantastic Florence, it’s not your fault
Review by Rachel Walker, Primary School Teacher
A story is designed to be a safe space for children to see themselves in the story's characters and is an invaluable tool for parents and caregivers, therapists and educators.
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(Don't) Call me crazy: 33 voices start the conversation about mental health
Reviewed by Fiona McDiarmid, Teacher
Thirty-three actors, athletes, writers, and artists offer essays, lists, comics, and illustrations that explore mental health
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Channel kindness: Stories of kindness and community
Reviewed by Morgan Dysart
Stories collected from Lady Gaga's Born This Way Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making the world a kinder and braver place.
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Draw the line
Review by Deb Marsden, Guidance Counsellor & Secondary School teacher
Black and white illustrations with thoughtful splashes of color create a powerful, multi-layered statement about friendship, boundaries, and healing after conflict.
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Supporting Aotearoa's Rainbow People - A practical guide for mental health professionals
Review by Louisa Woods, Guidance Counsellor
The first thing that strikes you about Supporting Aotearoa's Rainbow People is its colour - the native flora and fauna that adorn its pages thanks to the design and illustration talents of Bo Moore.
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Moth
Reviews by Kellie Christophersen and Anna Mowat
Moth is a picture book about friendship and belonging, and how it feels when you don't fit in. It aims to help children to better understand social anxiety and introversion in a safe and relatable way.
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Promised Land
Review by Demi Cox, Bookseller
Promised land is an LGBTQIA+ themed children's book written by Adam Reynolds & Chaz Harris with illustrations by Christine Luiten.
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Release the beast
Review by Michelle Dendale, Information Officer, MHF
Release the Beast is a fun and quirky picture book which allows a child to respond to his frustrations by unleashing his imaginary beast.
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Raven Wild
Review by Taonga Tangaere, Artist, Writer, and Trans Person
The tale of a mystical gem and one woman's journey of self-determination in transition from the boy she once presented herself to be into the woman and hero that she would come to know herself as.
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Stand Up!: Be an upstander and make a difference
Review by Kim Thomas, Health and Physical Education teacher at Ellesmere College
A resource for teachers, parents, sports coaches, community leaders, workplaces, or just anyone that wants to teach children and adults the importance of being an upstander to make the world a better place.
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The no more bullying book for kids
Review by Sarah Premkumar, Student and Blogger
A book that empowers children to become ‘strong, happy and bully-proof’ versions of themselves, while giving parents and teachers alike the tools and resources to open up important conversations at home and school.
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The big umbrella
Review by Alice Bates, Senior Child and Youth Care Practitioner, Cholmondeley Children’s Centre
This story invites readers of all ages to think about what their own 'umbrella' looks like. It is a story about inclusion, connection and hospitality, a book that is deceptively simple in its depth.
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Rainboy: The brightest colors shine from within
Reviewed by Jake Nankervis, Kaiāwhina tautoko
This book explores concepts of differences, acceptance, popularity and loving yourself for who you are.
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Bullies and warriors
Review by Olivia Piper and Sophia Graham
In this novel Tim Tipene depicts the reality of bullying-and strategies to address it-for children on both sides of the problem. It addresses bullying head-on, and weaves practical solutions into a universal story.
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A little bit different
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
This book is intended as a funny and touching story about accepting and celebrating what makes each of us different and special.
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ACE: A horsey tail of courage
Review by Vivienne Martini, Learning Advisor, Oranga Tamariki and Sam
An anti bullying story book for children with a story that follows the life of a horse who despite being bullied ends up achieving his long held dreams and goals.
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Ali's first day at school
Reviews by Sasi and Latika
This book wonderfully portrays a refugee boy’s first day at school in New Zealand.
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Feel a little: Little poems about big feelings
Review by Amanda Schulze, Community Engagement/Health Promoter, MHF
A bright book encouraging a stronger understanding of emotions from an early age, providing a toolbox for starting conversations about emotions from a young age.
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Just breathe: A mindfulness adventure
Reviewed by Charmaine Denney, Early Childhood Teacher and mum to two boys
A picture book that tells a story that takes children (and parents) through a simple and engaging mindfulness exercise. This introduced a wonderful way of dealing with difficult emotions and preventing anxiety.
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Kiwicorn
Review by Amanda Schulze, Community Engagement & Health Promotion Specialist. MHF
Kiwicorn is a cute and funny story about being unique. Gorgeous illustrations and writing, help children to understand their emotions and to open a light-hearted dialogue about diversity.
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Maia and the Worry Bug | Māia rāua ko te ngārara pāwera
Review by Kate Cherven, Communications and Marketing Officer, MHF
'Maia and the worry bug' is a story and resource book to help families experiencing mild to moderate anxiety manage their worries and understand anxiety better.
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Maiden voyage
Review by Leanne Stubbing, Year 6 Teacher
A brand new tale of discovery about the importance of truth, family and love. Maiden Voyage is the follow-up to the internationally acclaimed LGBTQ themed fairytale Promised Land.
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The smelly giant / Tio tiamu
Review by mums, teachers and school kids
The Smelly Giant/Tio Tiamu, tells the story of Toe Butter/Tio Pata, a big friendly giant shunned by the people of his village because he was different.
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The Chill Out Chair series
Review by Anna Mowat, who works as part of the All Right? wellbeing campaign in Otautahi
The Chill Out Chair is the second book in the Nicholas story series. We learn how the Calm Down Chair got its new name, the Chill Out Chair.
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Big Red and the Little Bitty Wolf: A story about bullying
Review by Charmaine Denney, early childhood teacher and mum to two boys
This book is a modern twist on the classic tale, in which a little wolf's unexpected solution to the class bully is met with surprising success.
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Consent (for Kids!): Boundaries, respect, and being in charge of YOU
Reviews by William and Deanne Douglas
Rachel Brian's book sets out to help children to speak up and tell others when they don’t want to be hugged or tickled, or if they feel uncomfortable with another person.
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Each kindness
Review by Jo Quigg, mum of 2 children, 7 and 9 years old
When Chloe's teacher gives a lesson about how even small acts of kindness can change the world, Chloe is stung by the lost opportunity for friendship.
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From worrier to warrior: A guide to conquering your fears
Review by Anna Mowat, who works as part of the All Right? wellbeing campaign in Otautahi
From Worrier to Warrior will teach you how to create your very own "toolbox" of ways to combat fear and anxiety to carry with you and conquer the Worry Monster at any time.
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Inclusion alphabet: ABCs for everyone
Review by Jill Proops, mum to a child with additional needs
Inclusion Alphabet: ABC’s for everyone is a picture book which guides the reader through some key features of inclusion.
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Invisible Jerry
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
This is a picture book with humour and heart for everyone who has ever felt like they’re on the outside looking in.
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Llama Llama and the Bully Goat
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
Taking on a difficult but important part of children's lives, Anna Dewdney gives readers a way to experience and discuss bullying in a safe and comforting way.
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Made by Raffi
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
A story of a little boy who is different from his peers and is bullied at school, Pomranz celebrates just how good it is to march to a different beat.
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Odd Velvet
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
This is a tale about being different and the pressures of fitting in. In the end, Velvet's classmates discover that being different is what makes Velvet so much fun.
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Stick and Stone
Review by Jo Quigg, mum of two children aged 7 and 9
Stick and Stone are on their own, until a chance encounter with a boorish bully (Pine Cone), inspires Stick to stick up for stone. The new pals head off on an adventure and discover that friendship really rocks.
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The kindness snippet jar
Review by Kimberley Fatt, Primary School Teacher
The story suggests to the reader that whilst doing kind things for others is great, "Sometimes all it takes is doing something kind for someone right in front of you!"
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The proudest blue: A story of Hijab and family
Review by Kirstie Stevens, School Library Assistant
An uplifting, universal story of new experiences, the unbreakable bond between siblings, and of being proud of who you are. Sibling Faizah tells the story of her older sister, Asiya's, first-day wearing a hijab at school.
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What is empathy? A bullying storybook for kids
Review by Ky McWilliam
Two sides to every story--helping kids learn compassion and understanding by putting themselves in someone else's shoes.
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You, me and empathy: Teaching children about empathy, feelings, kindness, compassion, tolerance and recognising bullying behaviours
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
This charming story uses verse, beautiful illustrations and a little person called Quinn to model the meaning of empathy.
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Because everything is right but everything is wrong
Review by Nicola Corner, Communications Assistant, MHF
The book follows Caleb, a teenager in his last year of high school, and his experiences going through and coming to terms with mental illness.
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Kick Depression
Review by Meg Rogers, Saint Hilda's Collegiate School
This free e-book contains a number of scientifically proven ways to help you to get through the hard times, with a sprinkling of ‘honest’ language and graphics. .
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Only freaks turn things into bones
Review by Susy Carryer, secondary school English teacher and mother, who has worked with children and young people
Only Freaks Turn Things Into Bones uses the sort of macabre humour that appeals particularly to new entrant age children to present some important messages to anyone who feels like they don’t fit.
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Play your best card
Review by Briar Matthews, Bayfield High School
A team-based game that encourages teens to have conversations on a range of topics relevant to young people.
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Rising tide/He tai pari
Review by Anna Mowat, Family Advisor at All Right?
An engaging junior fiction self-help text for ages 8-12 that follows Ari through a series of challenging events and resolution. The book includes peer reviewed therapeutic lesson plans and family exercises.
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Soulfire
Review by Sam, a year 9 student
Soulfire is a great book that teaches good morals and the importance of doing the right thing.
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Stuff that sucks: Accepting what you can't change and committing to what you can
Review by Jono Selu, Community Engagement / Health Promoter. MHF
Stuff That Sucks encourages you to accept your emotions rather than struggling against them, with a strong emphasis on validation and compassion.
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The book of knowing: Know how you think, change how you feel
Review by Gray Smith, Logan Park High School
The inspiration for "Knowing" came from Gwendoline Smith's very successful blog Dr Know. Answering requests from thousands of young people around the globe.
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When life gives you lemons: A resource for young people dealing with depression & anxiety
Review by Kate Cherven, Communications and Marketing Specialist, MHF
Written by young people who have been there, this book provides an understanding of what depression and anxiety is like, and helps make sense of it all. .
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Young Queen
Review by Jono Selu, Community Engagement & Health Promotion Officer, MHF
Young Queen is the autobiography of Parris Goebe a dancer with a dream ... a young Polynesian girl who grew up in New Zealand and went on to conquer the hip hop world.
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Confessions of a former bully
Review by Elise McGregor, Carmel College
After Katie gets caught teasing a schoolmate, she realizes that bullying has hurt not only the people around her, but her, too.
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Dare! / Weird! / Tough!
Review by Evie Ryan, St Albans Primary School and Anna Mowat, works as part of the All Right? wellbeing campaign in Otautahi
These three books tell the story of an ongoing case of bullying from three third graders’ perspectives. Kids will easily relate to Luisa, Jayla, and Sam, as each girl has her own unique experience.
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Dear Bully: Seventy authors tell their stories
Review by Honor Jackson, Mana College
Today's top authors for teens and young people come together to share their stories about bullying-as bystanders, as victims, and as the bullies themselves-in this moving personal collection.
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Fighting invisible tigers: Stress management for teens
Review by Portia Devonshire
This book offers proven techniques that teens can use to deal with stressful situations in school, at home, and among friends.
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I am Jack
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
Susanne Gervay's thoughtful story sheds light on the contagious and destructive nature of school bullying, and the power of humor, love, and community to overcome it.
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It gets better: Coming out, overcoming bullying and creating a life worth living
Review by Karen, Health Teacher
It Gets Better is a great compilation of stories about coming out, from a wide variety of contributors, offering a range of diverse perspectives and lived experiences.
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Mind your head
Review by Rachel McLean, Darfield College
Juno Dawson leads the way with this frank, factual and funny book, with added information and support from clinical psychologist Dr Olivia Hewitt.
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My Anxiety handbook: Getting back on track
Reviews by Kiefer Hunt and Kristina Pinto
Co-written with a college student who has experienced anxiety herself, this anxiety survival guide teaches 12 to 18 year olds how they can overcome their biggest worries.
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Nobody! A story about overcoming bullying in school
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
With support from friends, classmates, and adults, Thomas starts to feel more confident in himself and his hobbies, while Kyle learns the importance of kindness to others.
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Real friends
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
Author Shannon Hale and New York illustrator LeUyen Pham join forces in this graphic memoir about how hard it is to find your real friends—and why it's worth the journey.
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Starving the anger gremlin: A cognitive behavioural therapy workbook on anger management for young people
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
This imaginative workbook shows young people how to starve their anger gremlin and control their anger effectively.
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Stick up for yourself: Every kid's guide to personal power and positive self-esteem
Review by Datoka Shute
Questions from real kids are paired with answers about how to handle specific situations calmly, confidently, and effectively.
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The survival guide to bullying: Written by a teen
Review by Neeve Edwards-Brown, Avonside Girls High School
Author, Aija Mayrock, offers guidance as well as different strategies that helped her get through even the toughest of days.
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The big little book of resilience
Review by Ivan Yeo, Information Office, MHF
The Big Little Book of Resilience is about developing flexibility, acceptance and self-compassion when those plans go awry.
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Bully on the bus
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
Leroy's teacher introduces him to the adventures in The Big Bad Book of Fairytales, hidden throughout are the clues that Leroy needs to overcome the bus bully's taunts once and for all.
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Turtles all the way down
Review by Sophia Graham, Communications and Marketing Manager, MHF
John Green shares Aza's story with shattering, unflinching clarity in this brilliant novel of love, resilience, and the power of lifelong friendship.
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Bully
Review by Kim Higginson, Information Management Specialist, MHF
Patricia Polacco has taken up the cause against bullies ever since Thank You, Mr. Falker, and her passion shines through in this powerful story of a girl who stands up for a friend.
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Fairytale fraud: Sibling wars
Review by Deb Marsden, Guidance Counsellor & Secondary School teacher
The traditional Hansel and Gretel tale taught us to not trust strangers and to not disobey our parents, but Kate Pye has twisted the tale to teach different morals and life lessons.
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How do I feel? A dictionary of emotions for children
Review by Anna Mowat who works as part of the All Right? wellbeing campaign in Otautahi
This emotions dictionary is all about helping children find the words for how they truly feel. Learning to recognise and label our emotions correctly is such an important skill for life.
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The boys in the Waka Ama
Review by Charmaine Denney, Early Childhood Teacher and mum to two boys.
This story is a great way to demonstrate and perhaps initiate a discussion on the values of teamwork, dedication, leadership and respecting Aotearoa's cultures.
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