“The memorable characters and the questions raised in Bell’s heart-wrenching debut will stay with readers long after the final page is turned.” - BookLife
Genre: Young Adult
Format: Paperback; Hardcover; epub
Pages: paperback 238; hardcover 228
Available: Amazon; Barnes & Noble
Book Summary
When thirteen year-old Abby moves from liberal San Francisco to a mansion in the conservative South Carolina town where her late mother grew up, she fears she won’t fit in. Making friends with Hollis leads to a summer of life changing adventure and discovery rescuing an injured heron. But when school starts, Abby is shocked to learn that her new BFF is a bullied outcast, and soon Abby becomes a target. Under outside pressure, Hollis withdraws and Abby fights a losing battle to keep the summer’s magic alive. When Hollis commits suicide, Abby learns about being the friend you wish you had.
Inspiration
BFF: A Story About Bullycide was written during National Novel Writing Month, inspired by the plenitude of articles Lindsey read online over a period of three years about kids aged 9-13 who had elected to kill themselves in the face of bullying.
Lindsey, too, was bullied in elementary school - to the point where the principal called she and her mother in and said that if she missed one more day of school, they would have to hold her back. She completed that year, but later changed schools. She remembers the fear, anxiety, shame, and hopelessness, and prays this book shows anyone considering suicide that it’s a mistake.
If you or anyone you know is considering suicide or may be at risk, please talk to a friend, parent, teacher, guidance counselor, professional and/or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at: 1-800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK). It’s free to call, anonymous, and open 24 hours a day every day of the year.
Cover Art
The beautiful, original cover art for BFF: A Story About Bullycide was created by artist and illustrator Katena Utena.