| picture story books that explore and illuminate |
| Alley Oops Written by Janice Levy Illustrated by Cynthia Decker |
Reviews
From School Library Journal
"...The watercolor cartoons are lively and have contemporary details. ...the book may be useful to help initiate discussion on this important
topic." – Jennifer Ralston, Harford County Public Library, Belcamp, MD
From Children's Literature
Jonathan Jason Jax (aka J.J.) is a bully. He has plenty of hurtful names for Patrick Montgomery, the new, somewhat overweight boy in town,
and Patrick is afraid to go to school. When Patrick’s dad stops by the Jax residence to discuss the problem with J.J.’s dad, J.J. learns a
valuable lesson about name-calling and hurting people’s feelings. His dad tells him a story about his own experience being the school bully and
how it came back to haunt him many years later. He also shares a piece of advice his own father taught him about the good and bad “dogs”
inside us all and how the one who gets fed the most is the one the world will see. J.J.’s mad and pays a visit to “Pig Pen,” as he likes to call
Patrick. Eventually, however, he realizes he has more in common with Patrick than he has known! Both boys have bratty little sisters, dads
who tell long-winded stories, and a love for arm wrestling. When Patrick demonstrates his unbeatable arm wrestling moves, J.J. is impressed
and decides to become his promoter and manager. It is the love of this sport that bonds these pre-teens and provides the opportunity for
Jonathan Jax to start feeding his good dog more often. -Kelly Roque
From Baltimore's Child
J.J. is just having fun teasing the new boy in school. But then one parent calls another, and J.J. gets and interesting lecture about the long-
term effects of teasing from his father. This intervention makes him reconsider, and J.J. finds out that the new boy, Patrick, is a very cool
person inside. Good illustrations by C.B. Decker capture the awkward adolescent yearning for acceptance and righteousness. - Kate Marley
From Lee Littlewood, Kid's Home Library, Copley News Service
Giving guides help youngsters deal with emotional issues
Many of the most sought after children's books are those that help younsters deal with emotional issues. These new books tackle shyness,
bullies, worries, baby sitters and tantrums. Parents, caregivers and teachers who need caring, empathetic guides to kids' behaviors should
consider these.
Bullying is more dangerous than ever before. This lighthearted picture book tells of a father who's discovered his son is calling an overweight
boy names. Instead of yelling and criticizing, Dad relates a bully story from his own childhood, prompting young J.J. to think and react,
eventually bonding with the other boy over arm wrestling and annoying-sister stories.
One quote from J.J.'s dad is especially helpful - "Your grandpa used to say we have two dogs inside of us, one good and one bad, that fight
all the time. The one that wins is the one you feed the most."
"Alley Oops" is important, and can help bullies understand the impact of their hurtful behavior.
(Printed in The Repository of Canton, Ohio, May 15, 2005)
From Betty Dravis, Amazon Top 1000 Reviewer
As I've said before, I just adore all the children's picture books in FLASHLIGHT PRESS's catalog. I've already reviewed several of them
and my aim is to review as many as possible because these books are perfect for the children in your life aged 4 to 8.
With that in mind, I checked their on-line catalog. I had a hard time choosing between Alley Oops and Carla's Sandwich. I decided on Alley
Oops because it's a different kind of "bully" story and because my neighbor's son has just had his first run-in with a bully--an age-old problem
that has more repercussions than bullies realize until often too late.
In this book Mr. Jax is surprised that his son J. J. has been bullying an overweight boy named Patrick, calling him bad names like Pig-Pen
and Porky. When Patrick starts having nightmares, his father asks Mr. Jax to speak to J.J. The boy excuses himself, saying he was just
having fun. How does Mr. Jax handle this situation? What does he tell his son to make him understand how bullying can really hurt a person,
causing long-lasting problems, often ruining the other person's life? Does J. J. listen to his father, then try to make amends to Patrick? If so,
how does Patrick react? And what plan do they come up with that ends up influencing everyone at their school?
As this author weaves her interesting, timely story, she deftly answers all those questions and more. This topic may seem a little above
the children's heads, but the book is so well-written and easy to follow that they should easily get the message. Furthermore, parents and
educators can use this book to open discussion on this important topic and help the children further understand the impact of their words on
others.
The message in this book can be used to build self-esteem and long-lasting friendships. In addition to being educational, Alley Oops by
gifted writer Janice Levy is entertaining and enhanced by colorful, meaningful illustrations by the talented artist Cynthia Decker.
Very highly recommended.
From The Horn Book Guide
After J.J.'s dad scolds him for teasing an overweight boy named Patrick, J.J. confronts Patrick about tattling. The two end up bonding over a
mutual passion for wrestling, and irritation with parental lectures... The watercolor illustrations are well composed...
One of 25 Top Character Education Books
Alley Oops was chosen as one of the Top 25 Character Education books by Character Education trainer of trainers Barbara Gruener, on The
Character Education Partnership website. Character education is a nationwide movement encouraging schools to create environments that
foster ethical, responsible, and caring young people. It is the intentional, proactive effort by schools, districts, and states to instill in their
students important core, ethical values that all people share, such as caring, honesty, fairness, responsibility, and respect for self and others.
The CEP is a national advocate and leader for this character education movement. Based in Washington, D.C., they are a nonprofit,
nonpartisan, nonsectarian coalition of organizations and individuals committed to fostering effective character education in the nation's K-12
schools. See http://www.character.org, click on Resources, then click on Character Education (CE) Blog (both links are on the left), then look
to the right for a link called CE Books. Barbara's Top 25 Character Education Books list is half way down the first page. Two other Flashlight
Press books, Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick (0972922555) and The Only One Club (0972922539) are also included on this Top 25 list.
The Six Pillars
Alley Oops is also included in a list of Children's Books That Illustrate the Six Pillars [of character education: Trustworthiness, Respect,
Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship] on Character Counts.com. This list, originally compiled by Kate Harrington of the
Albuquerque Public library, indicates which of the Six Pillars of Character is most strongly emphasized in each book. Alley Oops is listed as
emphasizing Respect. For the full list, see http://www.charactercounts.org/booklist1.htm
From the Curriculum Connections of the ADL
(featured in Winter 2005: Using Children's Literature to Address Bullying, and included in the ADL's Annotated Bibliography of Children's
Fiction on Bullying)
Named for that "alley oops!" moment when a child experiences the empowerment that comes from doing the right thing, this story relates the
aftermath of bullying from the perspective of the bully. J.J. Jax has been tormenting an overweight boy, Patrick, who is now afraid to go to
school. After Mr. Jax tells J.J. a story about when he acted as a bully and how sorry he feels now, J.J. bikes over to Patrick's house to talk
things over. J.J. is surprised to discover how much he and Patrick have in common, including the sport of arm-wrestling. Trounced at the
table, J.J. is impressed with Patrick's "hammer hand" and decides to become his manager. The boys' shared interest in arm-wrestling becomes
the conduit for resolution and budding friendship.
Alley Oops is included in a list of bibliotherapy books on bullying for grades 1-3 in the Unionville Chadds Ford (PA) School District. The
summary states "Named for that 'alley oops!' moment when a child experiences the empowerment that comes from doing the right thing, this
story relates the aftermath of bullying from the perspective of the bully." See the entire bibliography at http://cfes.ucfsd.org/Bully%
20Bibliography2.htm
From Barbara Gruener
Cleverly illustrated by CB Decker, this picture book tackles bullying, an age-old problem with devastatingly painful effects. Meet J.J. Jax, the
bully in this story. Travel with him as he faces the consequences of his father finding out about his bullying behavior. See what his father has
to say about his own brush with bullying. Get to know J.J.'s victim, Patrick, who no longer wants to go to school because of J.J.'s relentless
taunting and teasing. Find out what happens when J.J. goes to Patrick to make amends. Can a bully and his victim find common ground solid
enough to build a friendship?
The author of this little gem delicately weaves in the parable of the two dogs inside each of us, representing the good and the bad, constantly
at battle. When J.J. asks his father which one wins, he wisely responds, "the one you feed the most." What a beautiful illustration of the power
of choice. Check out this book; it will empower your children to wrestle with big choices and take a look at their own actions and reactions.
(Barbara Gruener is a Counselor at Westwood Elementary in Friendswood, TX, and writer of a guidance webpage on academicplanet.com.
See http://tools.academicplanet.com/webs/bgruener to read her article on The Golden Rule, which included this review.)
From Rebecca Reads
JJ torments Patrick, who is overweight.
Sticks & stones may break my bones, but names will never harm me. Yeah, right. Sure. Who made that one up?
Alley Oops tells the story of the painful & humiliating aftermath of name-calling & bullying.
JJ's a skinny boy with a very sharp tongue & a nose for weakness, who's dug his teeth into making Patrick's days at school miserable by
calling attention to Patrick's size & calling him mean names. Now Patrick is a big boy, with a soft heart. JJ's harassed him to the point he's
scared to go to school.
When JJ's dad hears of his son's bullying, he first lectures him, which doesn't impress JJ one bit. So Dad takes him aside & tells the story of
when he was a kid... & a bully, & the consequences he only recently had to face because of what he'd done back then.
Now JJ is impressed, so much so, he jumps on his bike & heads over to Patrick's home to see if he can patch things up. There he discovers
how much they have in common: little sisters who can do no wrong, & a passion for arm-wrestling ...and JJ experiences the Alley Oops
feeling of empowerment & self-esteem which comes from doing the right thing.
With snappy dialogue & marvelous pictures focusing on the harmful & lasting effects of bullying, & the importance of finding common
ground toward conflict resolution, Alley Oops is a teaching story that needs to be read, again & again.
For ages 7-13
From RebeccaReads.com on Amazon.com
Alley Oops is a funny and emotional read about how JJ so torments Patrick that he stays away from school. You kind of get the picture of a
ferocious little terrier dog, barking at an elephant's heels.
Then JJ's father tells him a story about how he too was a bully & what happened to the boy he tormented. Impressed, JJ goes off to Patrick's
home to sort things out, only to discover how alike they are, especially in their passion for arm wrestling.
Pretty soon, they come up with a way to win friends & influence everyone at school, JJ is going to be Patrick's, the "Hammer Hand", manager.
With snappy dialogue & marvelous pictures... Alley Oops... needs to be read, again and again. - Rebecca Brown
From Nashville Parent Magazine
Patrick is the new kid in school, and to make matters worse, he’s overweight. J.J. calls him mean names and plays horrible tricks on him. One
day J.J.’s father tells him a story about how he used to bully a kid in school and what happened as a result. After hearing about it, J.J. makes a
wise decision and to his surprise, ends up being good friends with Patrick. - Jennifer Lee
From the Maine Jewish Community Voice
An interview with Janice Levy
1. Is Alley Oops a true story?
Alley Oops is not based on childhood experience nor on anyone I know or knew personally. When I write, I choose an emotional experience
everyone can relate to and then I use my imagination to fictionalize it. As a former teacher, I taught English as a Second Language and
Spanish. I witnessed the bullying of youths because they were from foreign countries, who stood out from the mainstream because of their
native dress and accents.
2. How does being Jewish inform your work?
Being Jewish is the foundation of who I am. I am strongly aware and proud [of being a Jew] — but it has nothing to do with the writing of
the book. I travel all over the world and am very conscious of my Jewishness, especially when I am in the minority. It’s always fun to meet
Jews in places like Costa Rica, Guatemala and Peru, for example.
3. Bullying is a hot topic. What’s been the reaction to Alley Oops?
When I do book signings, everyone has a bully story for me. Parents, grandparents, caregivers...people can’t remember what color socks they
put on this morning, but they can recall a former tormenter in great detail, down to nose hair, twitchy eyebrows, and spit-shiny shoes; the
demented demon’s cackle still echoes in their ears. “Were you ever bullied?” I ask. The children shiver, grit their teeth, cross their eyes. They
pound their fists, wipe away tears; I sense healing in the retelling.
4. When you write, do you rely on personal experiences?
It’s more challenging to keep “me” out of my books. Bullies come in more flavors than jelly beans. They can physically threaten, verbally
maim or emotionally threaten. Some are in your face; some attack from behind. Others have ‘posses’ do the dirty work. In Alley Oops, the
bully tells the story. Readers learn what’s behind bullying, what’s ‘in it’ for the bad guy.
5. Why is the book selling so well? Is it because it resonates with adults as well as with children?
A bully can be a three-piece suit bedecked in Prada, whiffing of something French, with a voice snapping like crisp bills: Co-workers shield
their eyes from the lashings. It’s the ‘Passion of the Workplace.’ A grandmother told me she’s routinely bullied by doctors because she asks
too many questions, a mom whispered her hairdresser publically humiliates her, pointing out her protruding ears and double chin. A teacher
confided tales of spousal intimidation; her husband demands she get breast implants. But most importantly, people want to protect their
children. Alley Oops is about hurt and anger, empathy and hope, resilience and ingenuity. It’s about actions and consequences. Readers enjoy
that “alley oops!” moment when a child experiences the empowerment and self-esteem that come from doing the right thing.
6. What’s your favorite part of the book?
J.J. Jax torments an overweight boy, calling him Pig-Pen and Porky. Now the boy is afraid to go to school. When Mr. Jax finds out, he tells J.
J. a story about when he was a bully, and how sorry he feels now. He explains about the two dogs inside us, one bad and one good, that fight
all the time. “Which dog wins?” J.J. asks. “The one you feed the most,” Mr. Jax answers.
Children have the potential to make the world a happy, loving place. They need to be nurtured and respected, guided and praised. I autograph
my books with the message, ‘Live strong!”
From Bookpleasures.com
From the first two pages and onwards Alley Oops is straight to the point – it’s about bullying - and the main character is the perpetrator. The
book begins with Jonathan Jax (‘JJ’, a great name!) being scolded by his dad for teasing a new boy at school because he is over-weight. JJ
sees nothing wrong, until dad bores him with one of his stories and JJ has no choice but to listen.
Dad talks to JJ about his own experience of being a bully at school, and how it came to revisit him as a grown up when his victim came
knocking, he was a very large man indeed compared to him, and Mr Jax was a little worried. It taught him a lesson, which he imparts on his
son.
Invariably, Mr Jax convinces JJ of his wrong-doings, who goes on to befriend Patrick, the new boy. Through chatting JJ finds out that
Patrick’s uncle is Muscle Max, a cool arm wrestler. Greatly impressed, JJ also discovers that Patrick himself has some talent in that area. He
decides that he can become his manager and they can host big competitions...
The illustrations, by C.B. Decker, are crisp and have a lot of energy, and I think both in terms of the drawings, and in terms of the story, the
main appeal of this book would be to boys.
-Andrea Wren
From Midwest Book Review
The subject of dealing with bullies is the focus of Alley Oops, an entertaining and superbly written picturebook written by Janice Levy and
illustrated by Cynthai Decker for young readers ages 5 to 9. The story follows young Patrick as he repeatedly encounters a name-calling bully
at school - J.J. Jax, who labels him "Pig-Pen" and "Porky". When Mr. Jax learns of this, he tells J.J. a story about the days long ago when he
was once a bully. Mr. Jax explains that everyone has two dogs inside - one bad and one good - and whichever dog we feed the most will win
the battle. Ally Oops demonstrates the negative consequences of bullying, and offers a positive alternative through self-empowerment and
esteem, which can be used to build lasting connections of true friendship. Very highly recommended.
From the Portland Jewish Review
Writing about bullying from the point of view of the bully, Janice Levy draws on the Jewish concept of the yetzer hara and the yetzer tov (evil
and good inclinations) to explain why children bully each other. In her book, Levy describes the inclinations as a good dog and a bad dog
constantly fighting inside everyone. The dog that one chooses to feed the most wins the battle.
Former bully J.J. Jax discovers that feeding the good inclinations and empathizing with "the new kid" makes him feel better than bullying ever
did. - Deborah Seldner
From Suite 101.com
****Highly Recommended
I recently got a shipment of books to review from Flashlight Press. There's some really awesome kids' books that I'm looking forward to
reading and reviewing for you. The first one is on the social issue of bullying.
No one should be bullied. Everyone should be free to go wherever they want without having to be afraid. This book is a great resource of
information to all those coping with situations concerning bullying, including teachers and parents.
This story is told from the point of view of the bully, J.J. Jax. He's in a lot of trouble again. It seems that he's been bullying Patrick
Montgomery, the new boy at school.
Patrick is overweight. J.J. has been teasing, taunting and calling him names like, "The Big Oink," and "Porky." Patrick has been having
nightmares and is afraid to go to school. He's afraid that J.J. is going to hurt him.
Patrick's father has gone to see J.J's dad. Mr. Jax is furious when he finds out what his son's been doing. He tells J.J. a story about when he
was young. J.J. hates these stories and is angry.
J.J. jumps on his bicycle and pedals furiously over to Patrick's house. He confronts Patrick. Patrick is frightened at first, but then begins
telling J.J. things that annoy him. Before they know it, the boys are talking. It seems they really have a lot in common. You will be really
surprised at what happens next.
Author Janice Levy uses quick, sharp dialogue that will have you flipping pages like crazy. Illustrator C.B. Decker's life-like illustrations bring
the story to life.
- Mary M. Alward, Great Books for Kids
Interview with Janice Levy, author of Alley Oops, by Sue Reichard on Suite101.com. Here are excerpts from that interview:
SR: I understand that your latest book, "Alley Oops," is about bullying, told from the bully's perspective. My school where I teach just
implemented an anti-bullying campaign and your book speaks to this awful problem that is really pervasive in the schools.
JL: Bullying is a worldwide problem with negative lifelong consequences - for the bully as well as the victim. Nearly everyone knows a bully,
has been bullied, or has bullied someone. "Alley Oops" is a story about hurt and anger, empathy and hope, resilience and ingenuity. It's about
actions and consequences. It's about that "alley oops!" moment when a child experiences the empowerment and self-esteem that come from
doing the right thing.
From MyShelf.com
I need to begin by admitting that I don't like books designed to teach kids a moral lesson. And I really don't like books that have a parent
lecture the main character on morality. Since both things happen in Alley Oops, I must dislike it, right? Well, no, not this time. I read this book
to my five year old. She's on the young end of the target age and she's never been bullied. She was riveted by the story. She asked for it over
and over. And she asked a lot of questions. We were able to talk about bullying and the need to be kind to kids, so even (or perhaps especially)
in the very youngest reader -- this book accomplishes its mission. Also, the illustrations are lively and should catch the eye of a school-aged
reader and if you can get kids to read it, you can probably get them to think about bullying in new ways.
Alley Oops is the story of a popular boy who picks on a new classmate for being fat. Since the new classmate is very big and very strong, in
addition to being fat, I was impressed that the shrimpy main character had the courage to tease him but I think that was a good choice, also.
The targets of bullying are often the meek, not just the weak. It was interesting to see bullying addressed from the viewpoint of the bully. I
was a little sad to see that what really ended the bullying was having the victim prove himself cool enough not to be victimized, but I guess
that's realistic, too. Lectures from parents don't solve as much as we'd like. Sometimes bullying doesn't end until both the victim and the bully
change. This book will definitely be another tool in the job of helping bullies and victims change. - Jan Fields
From The Modesto Bee
Pen to Print: Local authors, artists manage the publishing game
(Photo at the top of the article shows illustrator Cynthia Decker in her studio with the caption: Cynthia Decker has illustrated several kids
books, including two published in June – "Alley Oops" and "Everybody Makes Mistakes".)
Here is the excerpt about Cynthia from the article:
Cynthia Decker of Modesto has illustrated several kids books, including two that came out in June – Alley Oops and Everybody Makes
Mistakes.
Illustrating a book takes her about six months of working nearly 40 hours a week, Decker said, adding that illustrators sometimes get their
own version of writer’s block.
“You have to be able to control creative juice and create an atmosphere to feel creative,” she said. “People think illustrations for children are
easier, but that isn’t the case. It’s hard to capture a lot of thought and emotion in a picture, just like it’s hard for the authors to say a lot in a
few words.” -Christine Salerno
From Review Books.com
Alley Oops illustrates bullying from the bully's perspective. It highlights a positive outlook and the importance to resolving the bullying conflict
and how everyone can be a winner in the end.
Mr. Jax and J.J. have that father-son talk after Mr. Jax finds out that J.J. has been calling Patrick Montgomery names at school—"The Big
Oink", "Porky", etc. Because of the ribbing of J.J., Patrick doesn't want to go to school anymore because he feels like he is being picked on.
To help J.J., Mr. Jax tells him a story about Frog Face, a boy, when he was growing up that he bullied. J.J. has "food for thought" when Mr.
Jax tells him a story that Grandpa used to tell about the two dogs inside of each of us. "One dog is bad. The other dog is good. The two of
them fight all the time. Which dog wins? The one you feed the most. You get to decide." Find out how this wonderful story turns out. -
Cheryl McCann
From Book Review Cafe.com
When a new kid came to Jonathan's school, Jonathan couldn't resist making fun of him. Patrick was overweight and sweaty and Jonathan
didn't see a reason not to tease this boy.
Jonathan's father told him a story (that he didn't want to listen to) that explained why he shouldn't make fun of anyone. They just might come
back years later angrier than before.
Will Jonathan really listen to his father and the story of when he was a boy? And what does Alley Oops mean? Find out in Alley Oops!
A great story teaching that bullying isn't something to be proud of. Each person in this world is different and each person has their own ideas
and talents to share. Why not meet a new friend and find out what they can show you instead of making fun of them? Unique drawings go
perfectly in this story setting. - Lisa D'Angelo
From Blether.com
Playground bullies and aggressive behavior are frequently addressed in today's parenting magazines. Author Janice Levy offers a completely
new take on the subject with her latest book, "Alley Oops", which is told from the bully's perspective. The book tells the story of a bully
named J.J. and how he manages to change his negative behavior to accept the person he once ridiculed.
The storyline is easy to follow for any child age 5 and above. J.J.'s personal journey from name-calling snit to an embracing friend of the
overweight kid in school helps readers understand how unique we all are without sugar-coating the topic of bullying. Levy presents the topic
in comprehensible language with a gratifying, realistic solution. I highly recommend her book, "Alley Oops", for its insight, educational value,
and straightforward treatment of an age-old problem. - Christine Louise Hohlbaum (Christine is the American expat author of Diary of a
Mother (2003) and SAHM I Am: Tales of a Stay-at-Home Mom (forthcoming), resides with her family near Munich, Germany. http://www.
diaryofamother.com)
From The Reading Tub.com
This is the story of a bully named J.J., and how he manages to change his negative behavior to accept the person he once ridiculed. The
issues of playground bullies and aggressive behavior are told from the bully's perspective. / I highly recommend this book. Levy presents the
topic in comprehensible language with a gratifying, realistic solution. / The book offers great insight and is a straightforward treatment of an
age-old problem...J.J.'s personal journey from name-calling snit to an embracing friend of the overweight kid in school helps readers
understand how unique we all are without sugar-coating the topic of bullying.
From Dr. Tom McIntyre
Through an entertaining story line, Alley Oops! takes a novel approach in the anti-bullying campaign...providing a book for offenders. It tells
the tale of a boy summoned by his father for bullying the new kid in school. The youngster is resistant to initial parental approaches such as
lecturing and asking "How would you feel if...". It is when the father reflects on his own experience with bullying that an impact is made.
With this new understanding of his behavior, the bully approaches the new kid, and comes to know and respect a talent held by him. The
story ends on a positive note with the bully and the victim finding common ground and developing a friendship.
In addition to the interesting story line, Ally Oops! provides a vivid imagery device involving fighting canines that will serve to remind
offending youngsters to "feed the good dog". Ally Oops! would serve well as an integral bibliotherapeutic component of an anti-bullying
program. It can help bullies to understand the impact of their hurtful behavior, and the need to change their ways.
(Dr. McIntyre, a professor of special ed for students with emotional and behavior disorders at Hunter College, is the developer of the www.
behavioradvisor.com website, and author of The Behavior Survival Guide for Kids: How to make good choices and stay out of trouble.)
From BoomerWomenSpeak.com
Watch the victim turn the tables on the bully and come out on top in that "alley oops" moment
Back to Alley Oops
"...The watercolor cartoons are lively and have contemporary details. ...the book may be useful to help initiate discussion on this important
topic." – Jennifer Ralston, Harford County Public Library, Belcamp, MD
From Children's Literature
Jonathan Jason Jax (aka J.J.) is a bully. He has plenty of hurtful names for Patrick Montgomery, the new, somewhat overweight boy in town,
and Patrick is afraid to go to school. When Patrick’s dad stops by the Jax residence to discuss the problem with J.J.’s dad, J.J. learns a
valuable lesson about name-calling and hurting people’s feelings. His dad tells him a story about his own experience being the school bully and
how it came back to haunt him many years later. He also shares a piece of advice his own father taught him about the good and bad “dogs”
inside us all and how the one who gets fed the most is the one the world will see. J.J.’s mad and pays a visit to “Pig Pen,” as he likes to call
Patrick. Eventually, however, he realizes he has more in common with Patrick than he has known! Both boys have bratty little sisters, dads
who tell long-winded stories, and a love for arm wrestling. When Patrick demonstrates his unbeatable arm wrestling moves, J.J. is impressed
and decides to become his promoter and manager. It is the love of this sport that bonds these pre-teens and provides the opportunity for
Jonathan Jax to start feeding his good dog more often. -Kelly Roque
From Baltimore's Child
J.J. is just having fun teasing the new boy in school. But then one parent calls another, and J.J. gets and interesting lecture about the long-
term effects of teasing from his father. This intervention makes him reconsider, and J.J. finds out that the new boy, Patrick, is a very cool
person inside. Good illustrations by C.B. Decker capture the awkward adolescent yearning for acceptance and righteousness. - Kate Marley
From Lee Littlewood, Kid's Home Library, Copley News Service
Giving guides help youngsters deal with emotional issues
Many of the most sought after children's books are those that help younsters deal with emotional issues. These new books tackle shyness,
bullies, worries, baby sitters and tantrums. Parents, caregivers and teachers who need caring, empathetic guides to kids' behaviors should
consider these.
Bullying is more dangerous than ever before. This lighthearted picture book tells of a father who's discovered his son is calling an overweight
boy names. Instead of yelling and criticizing, Dad relates a bully story from his own childhood, prompting young J.J. to think and react,
eventually bonding with the other boy over arm wrestling and annoying-sister stories.
One quote from J.J.'s dad is especially helpful - "Your grandpa used to say we have two dogs inside of us, one good and one bad, that fight
all the time. The one that wins is the one you feed the most."
"Alley Oops" is important, and can help bullies understand the impact of their hurtful behavior.
(Printed in The Repository of Canton, Ohio, May 15, 2005)
From Betty Dravis, Amazon Top 1000 Reviewer
As I've said before, I just adore all the children's picture books in FLASHLIGHT PRESS's catalog. I've already reviewed several of them
and my aim is to review as many as possible because these books are perfect for the children in your life aged 4 to 8.
With that in mind, I checked their on-line catalog. I had a hard time choosing between Alley Oops and Carla's Sandwich. I decided on Alley
Oops because it's a different kind of "bully" story and because my neighbor's son has just had his first run-in with a bully--an age-old problem
that has more repercussions than bullies realize until often too late.
In this book Mr. Jax is surprised that his son J. J. has been bullying an overweight boy named Patrick, calling him bad names like Pig-Pen
and Porky. When Patrick starts having nightmares, his father asks Mr. Jax to speak to J.J. The boy excuses himself, saying he was just
having fun. How does Mr. Jax handle this situation? What does he tell his son to make him understand how bullying can really hurt a person,
causing long-lasting problems, often ruining the other person's life? Does J. J. listen to his father, then try to make amends to Patrick? If so,
how does Patrick react? And what plan do they come up with that ends up influencing everyone at their school?
As this author weaves her interesting, timely story, she deftly answers all those questions and more. This topic may seem a little above
the children's heads, but the book is so well-written and easy to follow that they should easily get the message. Furthermore, parents and
educators can use this book to open discussion on this important topic and help the children further understand the impact of their words on
others.
The message in this book can be used to build self-esteem and long-lasting friendships. In addition to being educational, Alley Oops by
gifted writer Janice Levy is entertaining and enhanced by colorful, meaningful illustrations by the talented artist Cynthia Decker.
Very highly recommended.
From The Horn Book Guide
After J.J.'s dad scolds him for teasing an overweight boy named Patrick, J.J. confronts Patrick about tattling. The two end up bonding over a
mutual passion for wrestling, and irritation with parental lectures... The watercolor illustrations are well composed...
One of 25 Top Character Education Books
Alley Oops was chosen as one of the Top 25 Character Education books by Character Education trainer of trainers Barbara Gruener, on The
Character Education Partnership website. Character education is a nationwide movement encouraging schools to create environments that
foster ethical, responsible, and caring young people. It is the intentional, proactive effort by schools, districts, and states to instill in their
students important core, ethical values that all people share, such as caring, honesty, fairness, responsibility, and respect for self and others.
The CEP is a national advocate and leader for this character education movement. Based in Washington, D.C., they are a nonprofit,
nonpartisan, nonsectarian coalition of organizations and individuals committed to fostering effective character education in the nation's K-12
schools. See http://www.character.org, click on Resources, then click on Character Education (CE) Blog (both links are on the left), then look
to the right for a link called CE Books. Barbara's Top 25 Character Education Books list is half way down the first page. Two other Flashlight
Press books, Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick (0972922555) and The Only One Club (0972922539) are also included on this Top 25 list.
The Six Pillars
Alley Oops is also included in a list of Children's Books That Illustrate the Six Pillars [of character education: Trustworthiness, Respect,
Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship] on Character Counts.com. This list, originally compiled by Kate Harrington of the
Albuquerque Public library, indicates which of the Six Pillars of Character is most strongly emphasized in each book. Alley Oops is listed as
emphasizing Respect. For the full list, see http://www.charactercounts.org/booklist1.htm
From the Curriculum Connections of the ADL
(featured in Winter 2005: Using Children's Literature to Address Bullying, and included in the ADL's Annotated Bibliography of Children's
Fiction on Bullying)
Named for that "alley oops!" moment when a child experiences the empowerment that comes from doing the right thing, this story relates the
aftermath of bullying from the perspective of the bully. J.J. Jax has been tormenting an overweight boy, Patrick, who is now afraid to go to
school. After Mr. Jax tells J.J. a story about when he acted as a bully and how sorry he feels now, J.J. bikes over to Patrick's house to talk
things over. J.J. is surprised to discover how much he and Patrick have in common, including the sport of arm-wrestling. Trounced at the
table, J.J. is impressed with Patrick's "hammer hand" and decides to become his manager. The boys' shared interest in arm-wrestling becomes
the conduit for resolution and budding friendship.
Alley Oops is included in a list of bibliotherapy books on bullying for grades 1-3 in the Unionville Chadds Ford (PA) School District. The
summary states "Named for that 'alley oops!' moment when a child experiences the empowerment that comes from doing the right thing, this
story relates the aftermath of bullying from the perspective of the bully." See the entire bibliography at http://cfes.ucfsd.org/Bully%
20Bibliography2.htm
From Barbara Gruener
Cleverly illustrated by CB Decker, this picture book tackles bullying, an age-old problem with devastatingly painful effects. Meet J.J. Jax, the
bully in this story. Travel with him as he faces the consequences of his father finding out about his bullying behavior. See what his father has
to say about his own brush with bullying. Get to know J.J.'s victim, Patrick, who no longer wants to go to school because of J.J.'s relentless
taunting and teasing. Find out what happens when J.J. goes to Patrick to make amends. Can a bully and his victim find common ground solid
enough to build a friendship?
The author of this little gem delicately weaves in the parable of the two dogs inside each of us, representing the good and the bad, constantly
at battle. When J.J. asks his father which one wins, he wisely responds, "the one you feed the most." What a beautiful illustration of the power
of choice. Check out this book; it will empower your children to wrestle with big choices and take a look at their own actions and reactions.
(Barbara Gruener is a Counselor at Westwood Elementary in Friendswood, TX, and writer of a guidance webpage on academicplanet.com.
See http://tools.academicplanet.com/webs/bgruener to read her article on The Golden Rule, which included this review.)
From Rebecca Reads
JJ torments Patrick, who is overweight.
Sticks & stones may break my bones, but names will never harm me. Yeah, right. Sure. Who made that one up?
Alley Oops tells the story of the painful & humiliating aftermath of name-calling & bullying.
JJ's a skinny boy with a very sharp tongue & a nose for weakness, who's dug his teeth into making Patrick's days at school miserable by
calling attention to Patrick's size & calling him mean names. Now Patrick is a big boy, with a soft heart. JJ's harassed him to the point he's
scared to go to school.
When JJ's dad hears of his son's bullying, he first lectures him, which doesn't impress JJ one bit. So Dad takes him aside & tells the story of
when he was a kid... & a bully, & the consequences he only recently had to face because of what he'd done back then.
Now JJ is impressed, so much so, he jumps on his bike & heads over to Patrick's home to see if he can patch things up. There he discovers
how much they have in common: little sisters who can do no wrong, & a passion for arm-wrestling ...and JJ experiences the Alley Oops
feeling of empowerment & self-esteem which comes from doing the right thing.
With snappy dialogue & marvelous pictures focusing on the harmful & lasting effects of bullying, & the importance of finding common
ground toward conflict resolution, Alley Oops is a teaching story that needs to be read, again & again.
For ages 7-13
From RebeccaReads.com on Amazon.com
Alley Oops is a funny and emotional read about how JJ so torments Patrick that he stays away from school. You kind of get the picture of a
ferocious little terrier dog, barking at an elephant's heels.
Then JJ's father tells him a story about how he too was a bully & what happened to the boy he tormented. Impressed, JJ goes off to Patrick's
home to sort things out, only to discover how alike they are, especially in their passion for arm wrestling.
Pretty soon, they come up with a way to win friends & influence everyone at school, JJ is going to be Patrick's, the "Hammer Hand", manager.
With snappy dialogue & marvelous pictures... Alley Oops... needs to be read, again and again. - Rebecca Brown
From Nashville Parent Magazine
Patrick is the new kid in school, and to make matters worse, he’s overweight. J.J. calls him mean names and plays horrible tricks on him. One
day J.J.’s father tells him a story about how he used to bully a kid in school and what happened as a result. After hearing about it, J.J. makes a
wise decision and to his surprise, ends up being good friends with Patrick. - Jennifer Lee
From the Maine Jewish Community Voice
An interview with Janice Levy
1. Is Alley Oops a true story?
Alley Oops is not based on childhood experience nor on anyone I know or knew personally. When I write, I choose an emotional experience
everyone can relate to and then I use my imagination to fictionalize it. As a former teacher, I taught English as a Second Language and
Spanish. I witnessed the bullying of youths because they were from foreign countries, who stood out from the mainstream because of their
native dress and accents.
2. How does being Jewish inform your work?
Being Jewish is the foundation of who I am. I am strongly aware and proud [of being a Jew] — but it has nothing to do with the writing of
the book. I travel all over the world and am very conscious of my Jewishness, especially when I am in the minority. It’s always fun to meet
Jews in places like Costa Rica, Guatemala and Peru, for example.
3. Bullying is a hot topic. What’s been the reaction to Alley Oops?
When I do book signings, everyone has a bully story for me. Parents, grandparents, caregivers...people can’t remember what color socks they
put on this morning, but they can recall a former tormenter in great detail, down to nose hair, twitchy eyebrows, and spit-shiny shoes; the
demented demon’s cackle still echoes in their ears. “Were you ever bullied?” I ask. The children shiver, grit their teeth, cross their eyes. They
pound their fists, wipe away tears; I sense healing in the retelling.
4. When you write, do you rely on personal experiences?
It’s more challenging to keep “me” out of my books. Bullies come in more flavors than jelly beans. They can physically threaten, verbally
maim or emotionally threaten. Some are in your face; some attack from behind. Others have ‘posses’ do the dirty work. In Alley Oops, the
bully tells the story. Readers learn what’s behind bullying, what’s ‘in it’ for the bad guy.
5. Why is the book selling so well? Is it because it resonates with adults as well as with children?
A bully can be a three-piece suit bedecked in Prada, whiffing of something French, with a voice snapping like crisp bills: Co-workers shield
their eyes from the lashings. It’s the ‘Passion of the Workplace.’ A grandmother told me she’s routinely bullied by doctors because she asks
too many questions, a mom whispered her hairdresser publically humiliates her, pointing out her protruding ears and double chin. A teacher
confided tales of spousal intimidation; her husband demands she get breast implants. But most importantly, people want to protect their
children. Alley Oops is about hurt and anger, empathy and hope, resilience and ingenuity. It’s about actions and consequences. Readers enjoy
that “alley oops!” moment when a child experiences the empowerment and self-esteem that come from doing the right thing.
6. What’s your favorite part of the book?
J.J. Jax torments an overweight boy, calling him Pig-Pen and Porky. Now the boy is afraid to go to school. When Mr. Jax finds out, he tells J.
J. a story about when he was a bully, and how sorry he feels now. He explains about the two dogs inside us, one bad and one good, that fight
all the time. “Which dog wins?” J.J. asks. “The one you feed the most,” Mr. Jax answers.
Children have the potential to make the world a happy, loving place. They need to be nurtured and respected, guided and praised. I autograph
my books with the message, ‘Live strong!”
From Bookpleasures.com
From the first two pages and onwards Alley Oops is straight to the point – it’s about bullying - and the main character is the perpetrator. The
book begins with Jonathan Jax (‘JJ’, a great name!) being scolded by his dad for teasing a new boy at school because he is over-weight. JJ
sees nothing wrong, until dad bores him with one of his stories and JJ has no choice but to listen.
Dad talks to JJ about his own experience of being a bully at school, and how it came to revisit him as a grown up when his victim came
knocking, he was a very large man indeed compared to him, and Mr Jax was a little worried. It taught him a lesson, which he imparts on his
son.
Invariably, Mr Jax convinces JJ of his wrong-doings, who goes on to befriend Patrick, the new boy. Through chatting JJ finds out that
Patrick’s uncle is Muscle Max, a cool arm wrestler. Greatly impressed, JJ also discovers that Patrick himself has some talent in that area. He
decides that he can become his manager and they can host big competitions...
The illustrations, by C.B. Decker, are crisp and have a lot of energy, and I think both in terms of the drawings, and in terms of the story, the
main appeal of this book would be to boys.
-Andrea Wren
From Midwest Book Review
The subject of dealing with bullies is the focus of Alley Oops, an entertaining and superbly written picturebook written by Janice Levy and
illustrated by Cynthai Decker for young readers ages 5 to 9. The story follows young Patrick as he repeatedly encounters a name-calling bully
at school - J.J. Jax, who labels him "Pig-Pen" and "Porky". When Mr. Jax learns of this, he tells J.J. a story about the days long ago when he
was once a bully. Mr. Jax explains that everyone has two dogs inside - one bad and one good - and whichever dog we feed the most will win
the battle. Ally Oops demonstrates the negative consequences of bullying, and offers a positive alternative through self-empowerment and
esteem, which can be used to build lasting connections of true friendship. Very highly recommended.
From the Portland Jewish Review
Writing about bullying from the point of view of the bully, Janice Levy draws on the Jewish concept of the yetzer hara and the yetzer tov (evil
and good inclinations) to explain why children bully each other. In her book, Levy describes the inclinations as a good dog and a bad dog
constantly fighting inside everyone. The dog that one chooses to feed the most wins the battle.
Former bully J.J. Jax discovers that feeding the good inclinations and empathizing with "the new kid" makes him feel better than bullying ever
did. - Deborah Seldner
From Suite 101.com
****Highly Recommended
I recently got a shipment of books to review from Flashlight Press. There's some really awesome kids' books that I'm looking forward to
reading and reviewing for you. The first one is on the social issue of bullying.
No one should be bullied. Everyone should be free to go wherever they want without having to be afraid. This book is a great resource of
information to all those coping with situations concerning bullying, including teachers and parents.
This story is told from the point of view of the bully, J.J. Jax. He's in a lot of trouble again. It seems that he's been bullying Patrick
Montgomery, the new boy at school.
Patrick is overweight. J.J. has been teasing, taunting and calling him names like, "The Big Oink," and "Porky." Patrick has been having
nightmares and is afraid to go to school. He's afraid that J.J. is going to hurt him.
Patrick's father has gone to see J.J's dad. Mr. Jax is furious when he finds out what his son's been doing. He tells J.J. a story about when he
was young. J.J. hates these stories and is angry.
J.J. jumps on his bicycle and pedals furiously over to Patrick's house. He confronts Patrick. Patrick is frightened at first, but then begins
telling J.J. things that annoy him. Before they know it, the boys are talking. It seems they really have a lot in common. You will be really
surprised at what happens next.
Author Janice Levy uses quick, sharp dialogue that will have you flipping pages like crazy. Illustrator C.B. Decker's life-like illustrations bring
the story to life.
- Mary M. Alward, Great Books for Kids
Interview with Janice Levy, author of Alley Oops, by Sue Reichard on Suite101.com. Here are excerpts from that interview:
SR: I understand that your latest book, "Alley Oops," is about bullying, told from the bully's perspective. My school where I teach just
implemented an anti-bullying campaign and your book speaks to this awful problem that is really pervasive in the schools.
JL: Bullying is a worldwide problem with negative lifelong consequences - for the bully as well as the victim. Nearly everyone knows a bully,
has been bullied, or has bullied someone. "Alley Oops" is a story about hurt and anger, empathy and hope, resilience and ingenuity. It's about
actions and consequences. It's about that "alley oops!" moment when a child experiences the empowerment and self-esteem that come from
doing the right thing.
From MyShelf.com
I need to begin by admitting that I don't like books designed to teach kids a moral lesson. And I really don't like books that have a parent
lecture the main character on morality. Since both things happen in Alley Oops, I must dislike it, right? Well, no, not this time. I read this book
to my five year old. She's on the young end of the target age and she's never been bullied. She was riveted by the story. She asked for it over
and over. And she asked a lot of questions. We were able to talk about bullying and the need to be kind to kids, so even (or perhaps especially)
in the very youngest reader -- this book accomplishes its mission. Also, the illustrations are lively and should catch the eye of a school-aged
reader and if you can get kids to read it, you can probably get them to think about bullying in new ways.
Alley Oops is the story of a popular boy who picks on a new classmate for being fat. Since the new classmate is very big and very strong, in
addition to being fat, I was impressed that the shrimpy main character had the courage to tease him but I think that was a good choice, also.
The targets of bullying are often the meek, not just the weak. It was interesting to see bullying addressed from the viewpoint of the bully. I
was a little sad to see that what really ended the bullying was having the victim prove himself cool enough not to be victimized, but I guess
that's realistic, too. Lectures from parents don't solve as much as we'd like. Sometimes bullying doesn't end until both the victim and the bully
change. This book will definitely be another tool in the job of helping bullies and victims change. - Jan Fields
From The Modesto Bee
Pen to Print: Local authors, artists manage the publishing game
(Photo at the top of the article shows illustrator Cynthia Decker in her studio with the caption: Cynthia Decker has illustrated several kids
books, including two published in June – "Alley Oops" and "Everybody Makes Mistakes".)
Here is the excerpt about Cynthia from the article:
Cynthia Decker of Modesto has illustrated several kids books, including two that came out in June – Alley Oops and Everybody Makes
Mistakes.
Illustrating a book takes her about six months of working nearly 40 hours a week, Decker said, adding that illustrators sometimes get their
own version of writer’s block.
“You have to be able to control creative juice and create an atmosphere to feel creative,” she said. “People think illustrations for children are
easier, but that isn’t the case. It’s hard to capture a lot of thought and emotion in a picture, just like it’s hard for the authors to say a lot in a
few words.” -Christine Salerno
From Review Books.com
Alley Oops illustrates bullying from the bully's perspective. It highlights a positive outlook and the importance to resolving the bullying conflict
and how everyone can be a winner in the end.
Mr. Jax and J.J. have that father-son talk after Mr. Jax finds out that J.J. has been calling Patrick Montgomery names at school—"The Big
Oink", "Porky", etc. Because of the ribbing of J.J., Patrick doesn't want to go to school anymore because he feels like he is being picked on.
To help J.J., Mr. Jax tells him a story about Frog Face, a boy, when he was growing up that he bullied. J.J. has "food for thought" when Mr.
Jax tells him a story that Grandpa used to tell about the two dogs inside of each of us. "One dog is bad. The other dog is good. The two of
them fight all the time. Which dog wins? The one you feed the most. You get to decide." Find out how this wonderful story turns out. -
Cheryl McCann
From Book Review Cafe.com
When a new kid came to Jonathan's school, Jonathan couldn't resist making fun of him. Patrick was overweight and sweaty and Jonathan
didn't see a reason not to tease this boy.
Jonathan's father told him a story (that he didn't want to listen to) that explained why he shouldn't make fun of anyone. They just might come
back years later angrier than before.
Will Jonathan really listen to his father and the story of when he was a boy? And what does Alley Oops mean? Find out in Alley Oops!
A great story teaching that bullying isn't something to be proud of. Each person in this world is different and each person has their own ideas
and talents to share. Why not meet a new friend and find out what they can show you instead of making fun of them? Unique drawings go
perfectly in this story setting. - Lisa D'Angelo
From Blether.com
Playground bullies and aggressive behavior are frequently addressed in today's parenting magazines. Author Janice Levy offers a completely
new take on the subject with her latest book, "Alley Oops", which is told from the bully's perspective. The book tells the story of a bully
named J.J. and how he manages to change his negative behavior to accept the person he once ridiculed.
The storyline is easy to follow for any child age 5 and above. J.J.'s personal journey from name-calling snit to an embracing friend of the
overweight kid in school helps readers understand how unique we all are without sugar-coating the topic of bullying. Levy presents the topic
in comprehensible language with a gratifying, realistic solution. I highly recommend her book, "Alley Oops", for its insight, educational value,
and straightforward treatment of an age-old problem. - Christine Louise Hohlbaum (Christine is the American expat author of Diary of a
Mother (2003) and SAHM I Am: Tales of a Stay-at-Home Mom (forthcoming), resides with her family near Munich, Germany. http://www.
diaryofamother.com)
From The Reading Tub.com
This is the story of a bully named J.J., and how he manages to change his negative behavior to accept the person he once ridiculed. The
issues of playground bullies and aggressive behavior are told from the bully's perspective. / I highly recommend this book. Levy presents the
topic in comprehensible language with a gratifying, realistic solution. / The book offers great insight and is a straightforward treatment of an
age-old problem...J.J.'s personal journey from name-calling snit to an embracing friend of the overweight kid in school helps readers
understand how unique we all are without sugar-coating the topic of bullying.
From Dr. Tom McIntyre
Through an entertaining story line, Alley Oops! takes a novel approach in the anti-bullying campaign...providing a book for offenders. It tells
the tale of a boy summoned by his father for bullying the new kid in school. The youngster is resistant to initial parental approaches such as
lecturing and asking "How would you feel if...". It is when the father reflects on his own experience with bullying that an impact is made.
With this new understanding of his behavior, the bully approaches the new kid, and comes to know and respect a talent held by him. The
story ends on a positive note with the bully and the victim finding common ground and developing a friendship.
In addition to the interesting story line, Ally Oops! provides a vivid imagery device involving fighting canines that will serve to remind
offending youngsters to "feed the good dog". Ally Oops! would serve well as an integral bibliotherapeutic component of an anti-bullying
program. It can help bullies to understand the impact of their hurtful behavior, and the need to change their ways.
(Dr. McIntyre, a professor of special ed for students with emotional and behavior disorders at Hunter College, is the developer of the www.
behavioradvisor.com website, and author of The Behavior Survival Guide for Kids: How to make good choices and stay out of trouble.)
From BoomerWomenSpeak.com
Watch the victim turn the tables on the bully and come out on top in that "alley oops" moment
Back to Alley Oops