I Didn’t Stand Up

Written in the style of the World War II poem, “First They Came” by the German Lutheran pastor Martin Niemöller, I Didn’t Stand Up is a simple, yet powerful, picture book about bullying. Covered in this modern telling is a wide range of typical excuses bullies might use to justify their actions, whether that is skin colour, clothing choice, country of birth, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, physical disability, gender identification, and more. The book ends with a promise that, even if the reader is bullied, he or she is not alone. There is a well-written author’s note at the end that provides more information on the original poem, along with facts about, and suggestions for curtailing, bullying.

The illustrations are detailed drawings with sparse, yet effective, use of colour. Facial expressions on the characters are outstanding, conveying much emotional angst. While mild violence is depicted, it is not offensive.

I Didn’t Stand Up is an acceptable addition to public and school libraries.