Kusa Speaks Up! - Paperback

by Kathy Iorio (Author), Chris Schroeder (Illustrator)

"If I try and I give it some umph, I can triumph!"

Kusa is a spirited young elephant who celebrates friendship, kindness, and being uniquely herself. But when other elephants make fun of her, Kusa and her loyal friend Buddy discover that speaking up doesn't mean speaking harshly-it means finding the courage to use positive words with confidence and respect.

Kusa Speaks Up! is a heartwarming, playful picture book that empowers children to stand up for themselves and others while treating everyone with kindness. Ideal for ages 5-7 and K-1 classrooms, this social-emotional learning story opens meaningful conversations about teasing, bullying prevention, self-confidence, respectful communication, and celebrating differences.

Bonus reflection questions help parents, teachers, counselors, and caregivers continue the conversation, while fascinating animal facts add an extra dash of discovery and fun.

Part of Kusa & Friends-"Stories that grow kind hearts, brave voices, and confident minds."

Kusa Speaks Up! received First Place in Growing Pains and Second Place in School Issues in the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards and is part of the Firebird Award-winning Kusa & Friends series.

A brave voice can begin with one kind word-and a little umph!

"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