D.J. is sick and tired of his classmate Vince teasing him. But every time he gets mad, Vince brushes him off. “I was just kidding!” he tells D.J., as if that makes his hurtful comments alright. It’s not alright, and it’s certainly not funny, but D.J. isn’t sure how to handle Vince’s verbal bullying. With the help of his dad and a school counselor, a frustrated, angry D.J. gets some advice on how to respond in Trudy Ludwig’s pointed story that will resonate for many children, whether they identify with D.J., Vince, or both. Questions to spark discussion are provided. (Ages 5–8)

A rare look at emotional bullying among boys from the best-selling author of My Secret Bully.D.J.'s friend Vince has a habit of teasing D.J. and then saying, Just kidding!" as if it will make everything okay. It doesn't, but D.J. is afraid that if he protests, his friends will think he can't take a joke. With the help of his father, brother, and an understanding teacher, D.J. progresses from feeling helpless to taking positive action, undermining the power of two seemingly harmless words. Trudy Ludwig takes another look at relational aggression, the use of relationships to manipulate and hurt others, this time from the boy's point of view.

• Back matter includes discussion questions, a "dos and don'ts of teasing" list, and a resource guide for parents and teachers.

• Endorsed by Full Esteem Ahead, The Hands & Words Are Not For Hurting Project, and The Ophelia Project.