Duffy and the Bullies

From the pen of one of New Zealand's finest comic artists, in tandem with the creative brains behind the Duffy Books in Homes theatre programme, comes this graphic novel that speaks to kids from upper primary school through to junior high school. Adapted from a play that confronts bullying, Jeff Szusterman's story - superbly illustrated by Ant Sang - shows the popular Duffy (a Maori kid who captains the rugby team) coming to the aid of 11-year-old Marama, victim of physical and psychological bullying by the jealous Ashlee. With Kiwi-as characters, lots of rugby and familiar school and home settings, Duffy and the Bullies is a gripping read that will make a difference to kids.