Book Review: Please Stop Laughing at Me

Book Description:

While other children were daydreaming about dances, first kisses, and college, Jodee Blanco was trying to figure out how to go from homeroom to study hall without being taunted or spit upon as she walked through the halls.
This powerful, unforgettable memoir chronicles how one child was shunned--and even physically abused--by her classmates from elementary school through high school. It is an unflinching look at what it means to be the outcast, how even the most loving parents can get it all wrong, why schools are often unable to prevent disaster, and how bullying has been misunderstood and mishandled by the mental health community.
You will be shocked, moved, and ultimately inspired by this harrowing tale of survival against insurmountable odds. This vivid story will open your eyes to the harsh realities and long-term consequences of bullying--and how all of us can make a difference in the lives of teens today.
**Please note that this book is not explicitly Christian in content. If you are looking for a Christian Living titles featuring a large amount of faith-centered content, this titles may not be the best selection for you.

My Review

I requested to review this book because I work with teens and youth in my current profession. Many new anti-bullying laws have been passed recently and I wanted to see into the life of a bullied teen now adult and how the behaviors of youth around her affected her long term.

Author Jodee Blanco, so eloquently describes her experiences it left me haunted. She talks about the most intimate, painful things that bullies did to her and their long lasting effects. This book was moving and thought provoking. I found pieces of myself in the author as she describes situations where her ethics did not match up with those of her peers and that is what started the exclusion and violent behaviors of her once close friends. Even adults do this.

I would recommend this book to any one working in a school or with a child. It really is eye opening.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”