Jess is a spunky girl with a powerful imagination. She loves going on adventures with Blaze, and she’s hopeful about starting fresh at a fancy new school.

But on her very first day, the class bullies decide she doesn’t belong. They push her around and say cruel things — that she’s ugly, and stupid … and nothing like a “real” girl. They don’t stop.

As the days go on, Jess’ confidence fades and she struggles just to keep going. Then her mom teaches her something very important: how to stand strong when life gets difficult.

Jess has been chosen to participate in the school spellng bee, but since the bullies will be there, she’s not sure if she can. Determined to feel brave again, she decides to double-down on practicing what she’s learned.

As she builds a renewed sense of hope and determination, Jess defends classmate Sophie against the very kids who have bullied her. Over time they become friends, and Sophie asks Jess how she became so brave. Excited to learn it’s something Jess taught herself to do, she asks Jess to teach her. Jess does, saying it’s a simple method but she needs to practice it to get strong. Jess continues to practice and build her own confidence.

Growth is rarely a straight line – there are often challenges along the way. After a heartbreaking surprise that tests her courage, Jess has to give it everything she’s got to keep trusting, participate in the spelling bee, and stand strong in the face of her bullies.

This SEL-aligned middle grade anti-bullying book builds resilience from the inside out, helping young readers access the strength they already have. It offers a tangible approach for rising above adversity and celebrates the strength and authentic happiness that come from being true to yourself.

Your heart is your superpower, and it knows exactly who you are.
Trust it. In time you will become strong and happy.

Bullies, Blaze, and Bravery gives young readers a hands-on, practical way to grow confident and strong.
Mary Helen Rossi

This chapterbook is an excellent story for tweens. I highly recommend! Especially after going to the library and trying to find something on mh student’s level. I feel like this book is of great quality.

– Kimberly Hoobler 6/19/2026