"If I try and I give it some umph, I can triumph!" This encouraging quote from Kusa embodies the theme of this valuable children's story. Kusa Speaks Up! reminds young readers of the importance of honoring their own uniqueness and that of others.

Kusa, an energetic elephant, has many friends in the jungle. She helps other animals learn to speak with respect and get along when they play.

When other elephants make fun of her, she and her friend Buddy speak up. In addition, the author includes a list of interesting facts about giraffes.

Finally, thought-provoking questions that adults can discuss with young readers help them further internalize the valuable lessons in these pages: the uniqueness of each individual, treating others with kindness, and speaking up with courage and respect. "As K-12 teacher for nineteen years and a Bullying Prevention Specialist.

. .

I can say that Kusa Speaks Up! is spot on with how to diminish a bullying situation. Discovering how to speak up for ourselves with respect is one of the best tools we can learn for navigating life.

"Michelee A. Curtze, MEd Olweus Technical Assistance Consultant/TrainerOlweus Bullying Prevention Program "Kusa Speaks Up! is a delightful story with a clear, important message that it is okay to speak up when others are being mean or rude.

As the story unfolds, Kusa learns to use the power of positive words to speak up with respect for others as well as for herself. "Mary Ellen Straub, MEd.