Cassius Cashew and Frankenwalnut both face discrimination for being different, and according to national statistics over 20% of students in the United States report being bullied frequently as well. Bullying is a poignant issue that often carries significant emotional, psychological, and physical impacts that ripple out far beyond the schoolyard. Here at Frankenwalnut, we encourage readers and nuts of all ages to join with us in facing this issue head-on. As heard in the book, “Be a Good Buddy” is so much more than just a catch phrase; it’s a call to action!
Practical skills to have in the toolbelt of compassion and change are found throughout the pages of Frankenwalnut. Let’s take a look.
- Page 13: Speak Up! Frankenwalnut protected Cassius from further bullying by taking action when he saw someone in need. Moving forward and speaking up, even if the only sound we can make is “MMMM,” can stop bullying in its tracks. Empower bystanders to use their voices!
- Page 16: Foster Safe Spaces. The Crumbly Castle is a sanctuary for our nutty duo, a place they could look forward to escaping off to and where they never had to fear any judgement. Let’s work to ensure that everyone has access to a positive and inclusive environment where bullying has no place to thrive.
- Page 34: Be True to You. Cassius and Frankenwalnut are both honest about who they are and aren’t afraid to show their true colors. Being ourselves can give others the courage they need to express who they are and the things they like, too. It’s easier to feel accepted when differences are celebrated!
- Page 45: Practice Empathy. Wendy Walnut chooses to be compassionate and understanding, even going against a mob to say what is right on behalf of someone else. Taking the time to empathize can make all the difference in turning a situation from bullying to befriending.
- Page 93: Lead by Example. Frankenwalnut shows how the things that made him different are actually his strengths, and how he isn’t afraid to step out on his own to be a hero. It’s not enough to just speak kindness and respect, we need to demonstrate it through our actions.
These tips can be applied at both the personal and corporate levels, and the more we work together the stronger they will be! Many local and national organizations employ similar techniques, and some are even devoted entirely to using them and other tools to eradicate bullying. The Trevor Project (https://www.thetrevorproject.org/), Stomp Out Bullying (https://www.stompoutbullying.org/), and Stand for the Silent (https://standforthesilent.org/) are some organizations that are such champions for change. They provide education, community, advocacy, and more to help create a safer and kinder world. Frankenwalnut has partnered with such organizations by donating 20% of profits for each and every book sale.
Ending bullying isn’t just about mitigating harm; it’s about creating a society where everyone can thrive and contribute positively. By addressing the root causes of bullying and promoting empathy and respect, we pave the way for a future where kindness is the norm rather than the exception. By choosing kindness over cruelty, standing up for what is right, and fostering inclusive communities, we can collectively create a better world—one where everyone feels valued and respected. Join the movement to be a good buddy today!
