Children's Book Addresses Issue of School-Aged Bullying

HeartThemes Publishing recently published the book “Can You Decide? A Children’s Book About Bullying” written by Oakland County, Michigan resident Sister Mary Ann Dixon, O.P. and illustrated by artist Laura Rangos. This compelling book engages school-aged children with insight into bullying behavior. www.heartthemes.com

Bullying is a serious behavioral pattern that often creates a sense of helplessness in the victim. With the book “Can You Decide?”, empowerment is the goal. The colorfully illustrated book aimed at school-aged children provides teachable moments about life’s disappointments, and attempts to empower children who think they are helpless. The book’s innovative storyline also challenges those who treat other children badly.

For years as a classroom teacher, Sister Mary Ann Dixon, O.P. (Director, Faith Formation at St. John Fisher Chapel University Parish, Auburn Hills) saw first-hand how bullies can take the joy out of school — where bullying happens most — and turn an otherwise ordinary day into a series of scary events for the victim that's anticipated with anxiety.

Carefully crafted with meaning and inspiration, artist/illustrator Laura Rangos’ illustrations depict how bullies pick on others to feel powerful, popular, important, or in control. “Can You Decide” offers parents and care-givers a way to talk to children about bullies and discuss more healthy behaviors and personal interactions.

Educator and speaker Sister Mary Ann Dixon, O.P. serves as Director, Faith Formation at St. John Fisher Chapel University Parish, Auburn Hills. Multi-media artist Laura Rangos heads LR Design, LLC in Washington, Michigan. HeartThemes Publishing is a division of LR Design, LLC.

EDITORS: See images from the book online at http://www.heartthemes.com/books/booksdecide.htm