Lara Embry

Marlene is the mean girl at school. When one of her classmates stands up to her she cries and as readers we realize that Marlene doesn't really want to be a mean girl. Many kids act out for attention and to feel heard and seen. I think this is a prime example of this and how we need to recognize this behavior so that we can amend it and find better ways to get attention. Overall, this book was somewhat simple and lacking in story, although I liked the message it was not very captivating.

Overall message about how being mean and bullying others isn't cool, and usually the bully is the most insecure person. But, in my opinion, there was no consequences for her actions, all he says is "you're just a bully" and that was enough to make her cry and change her ways. Something about that doesn't really seem like real life. I think in normal circumstances it takes a little more than that to learn a lesson.