Question E

[Jonetta]

Lee had agreed to handle the civil case for Lindsay Hamilton’s parents. Were you surprised when we were given Lindsay’s point of view? As everyone knew she was being bullied, why does it seem so difficult an issue for schools, parents and law enforcement to handle?

[Lisa - (Aussie Girl)]

This may have been written a while ago, I think bullying is taken really seriously now, well it is in Australia. A lot of the stakeholders such as the parents, coaches and the school seemed to have a vested interest in this case or didn't want to rock the boat. Even though we got Lindsay's POV I already thought there was more to it than she taking her own life. Maybe that was the point of being given her POV throughout the story.

[~Melissa~]

I believe attempts are made to take bullying seriously. However, what the story said about the bullyer(s) having their teachers, counselour etc all snowed does ring true. At least, it did for me when I went through high school and I could still see it at my childrens school as well. Hearing Lindsay's POV was disheartening. Then later on when you meet her parents - I just felt worse for her.

[Lisa - (Aussie Girl)]

~Melissa~ wrote: "I believe attempts are made to take bullying seriously. However, what the story said about the bullyer(s) having their teachers, counselour etc all snowed does ring true. At least, it did for me wh..."

Her parents really made a mess of it didn't they. I think they meant well. How horrible for them to have to live with their parenting mistakes though.

[~Melissa~]

Lisa - (Aussie Girl) wrote: "~Melissa~ wrote: "I believe attempts are made to take bullying seriously. However, what the story said about the bullyer(s) having their teachers, counselour etc all snowed does ring true. At least...

Her parents really made a mess of it didn't they. I think they meant well. How horrible for them to have to live with their parenting mistakes though."

There's really almost a no win situation for these situations - especially the way it was portrayed in this book. I really did understand where both parents are coming from - but neither approach helped with what she was dealing with. Didn't sound like she told her parents everything either.

[Lynn]

Bullying is a tough thing to prove, especially when those involved are clever enough to not only hide it from authorities but also make sure that those around them aid in covering it up. Lindsay mentioned that nobody else wanted to be a target either. I thought including Lindsay's point of view probably meant that it would be important later in the story.