Sammy and Goliath

by John Konecny (Illustrator), Sandy Kegel

There were some things Sammy was good at, but other things he couldn't do well at all. One boy let him know it-everyday. Goliath picked on Sammy until he didn't show up at school anymore. This book reveals the critical problem of bullying in our schools today, complete with a discussion guide at the end. Whether you're a parent or a teacher, Sammy's story brings a real scenario to life as you work together with these kids to problem-solve the circumstances surrounding bullying to become a change agent. If students can be educated in the elementary grades on the topic of bullying, they will be much more equipped to handle the same pressures at a high school level and beyond.

30 pages, Paperback

Published October 20, 2015

Reviews

[joel Austine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this aloud to my 2nd graders during our kindness unit, and the silence in the room when Sammy stopped coming to school? Haunting. My students immediately connected some even shared their own “Goliaths.” The discussion guide gave us concrete language to talk about reporting vs. tattling and being an upstander. I’ve already ordered a second copy for our school counselor.

[Daniella liam · Rating 5 out of 5]

My son has been reluctant to go to school lately, and while I didn’t want to assume, this book opened the door for him to finally tell me what’s been happening. Sammy’s quiet strength and his pain mirrored what my child was feeling in a way I couldn’t reach. We’ve read it three times now, and each time he notices something new. Thank you for giving us words when we had none.

[Daniel Kevin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I bought this for my granddaughter after hearing her mention a “mean boy” at recess. At first I worried it might scare her, but it actually empowered her she now talks about “helping Sammys” at lunch. The illustrations are gentle, the message is clear without being scary. It’s amazing how much wisdom fits into such a small book.

[Hannah James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had to read this for a project, but I’m glad I did it reminded me of stuff that happened in 4th grade that I never really dealt with. Goliath reminded me of this kid who used to make fun of my glasses, and I wish I’d known back then that I wasn’t alone. It’s short, but it made me think about how I act around others now. Would recommend even for older kids.

[Jacqueline Walter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book checks all my boxes: age-appropriate, discussion-ready, emotionally honest, and solution-focused. I’ve added it to our “Feelings & Friendships” display, and teachers keep checking it out for classroom read-alouds. The fact that it includes actionable steps not just “be kind” makes it stand out among well-intentioned but vague anti-bullying books. A quiet gem.

[Johnny Robert · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a child therapist, I appreciate how this book validates the victim’s experience without vilifying the bully. It creates space to explore power dynamics, fear, and social responsibility in a developmentally appropriate way. I’ve used the discussion prompts in sessions with 6–9-year-olds, and they’re incredibly effective. Highly recommend for clinicians and caregivers alike.

[Lauren Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though we’re not in a traditional school setting, social dynamics still matter—playdates, co-ops, sports. This book gave us a safe way to explore what bullying looks like and how to respond when you see it. My kids role-played the ending and came up with their own “kindness team” rules. Perfect for planting empathy seeds early.

[Rose Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this as an adult made me tear up I was Sammy. The shame, the wanting to disappear… it all came rushing back. But this book also gave me a strange sense of healing, like someone finally saw that kid and said, “You mattered.” If this had existed when I was 8, maybe I wouldn’t have felt so alone. Powerful little book.

[Laura Robert · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ll admit I rolled my eyes when my wife handed me this to read with our son. But halfway through, I got quiet. The part where Sammy just stops showing up? That hit hard. We ended up talking for 20 minutes about what to do if someone’s being picked on. I’m keeping this on his nightstand.

[Catherine Vickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful and emotional story that every child and parent should read. Sammy’s experience opens the door for real conversations about bullying and kindness.