Bullying isn’t new—but it has changed. If you were a middle school student in the 1980s, you might remember bullying as something that happened face-to-face: being teased in the classroom, whispered about in the cafeteria, or made to feel small in the hallway. It was loud. It was personal. But once the school bell rang, you could usually leave it behind—at least for a little while. Now fast forward to Gen Z’s reality. Bullying doesn’t stop at the school doors. It follows students home through screens, private messages, group chats, and social media. One cruel comment online can ripple far and wide in minutes. Being “different” in today’s world can feel like being put on display 24/7. The pressure is relentless. That’s why I wrote A Friend. It’s a story that reaches beyond time, identity, and background. Whether you’ve experienced bullying in the 1980s or 2020s, A Friend is a deeply personal story about what it feels like to be isolated, misunderstood, and judged—and how friendship can show up in unexpected places. Want a sneak peek? You can read a FREE sample from the book—specifically pages 41–44—which drop you right into a moment of middle school tension. These pages hit hard and real. I chose this section because it captures the emotional complexity of being “the target” while still searching for connection. ???? Read the free sample here.
Bring A Friend to Your School This story isn’t just a book—it’s a tool. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, a counselor, or someone who remembers what it was like to be in that seat, A Friend can help open up conversations about empathy, acceptance, and how we treat one another. Bring A Friend to your school. Use it in classrooms, book clubs, or youth groups. Let it spark honest conversations. You never know who might need it most.
Let’s Talk About It Were you bullied in middle school? What was your experience like? Share your story in the comments. Whether it was the 80s, the 2000s, or just last year—your voice matters. Let’s create a safe space for people to be heard and supported. Coming Soon: The Podcast A Friend This summer, I’ll be launching a podcast and YouTube series where I’ll open up about my own experiences—both the painful and the healing parts. I’ll also be connecting with others who’ve faced bullying, felt left out, or struggled to find their place. If you’ve ever felt like the outsider, I hope these conversations will remind you that you’re not alone. So stay tuned. Subscribe. Share the free sample. And most importantly… Let A Friend into your life.