Amy Holder has shared her BULLY story and a Giveaway

 

 

I am so happy to announce that Amy Holder has shared her story today. And...she adds that same awesomeness that she packed into her book!

 

 

 

 

Bullying is an issue that’s near to my heart. Its prominence in the lives of youth today saddens and disappoints me to my core.  Not only is bullying a major theme in my first novel, THE LIPSTICK LAWS, I’m also familiar with it on a more personal level because it’s something I dealt with at a young age. Although the story I wrote and the story I lived differ in many ways, one fact in all bullying incidents is the same: bullying and the damage caused by bullying is never okay and it shouldn’t be tolerated.  

In the story I wrote, April, the main character, is a sophomore in high school who falls victim to ruthless bullying from a group of girls that she once considered friends.  She decides to stand up to her bullies and ultimately gets back at them with some not-so-sweet revenge.  Although the book is a light hearted, fun read, it delves into heavier teen topics that are unfortunately so relevant and relatable in today’s society.

In the story I lived, the bullying I encountered happened at the end of elementary school and lasted into middle school, which is arguably one of the most awkward, gawky times in any young person’s life. Unlike April, my bullying came from someone of the opposite sex. Also unlike April, I didn’t do anything to stand up for myself or get revenge on my bully, however sweet it would have been. My silent tears and acceptance of his cruel words reinforced his intimidation and power over me at the time. Perhaps that’s partly why April’s story came about; it was my way to write a different ending.

Regardless of differences in stories, I can relate to the universal struggles with sadness, embarrassment, body image issues, and the breakdown of confidence and self-worth that can result from being bullied. These feelings lingered long after the bullying was over.  However, from personal experience, I’m relieved to say that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I know when you’re going through it, there may not seem to be an end in sight…but trust me, there is. If you’re being bullied, know that you can not only survive it, you can (and will) thrive! You have wonderful things to look forward to, fabulous places to go, awesome people to meet, and goals and dreams to reach! The world is at your fingertips, and your future is too bright to let a bully block the light. And when all else fails, remember that Karma is a hard kicking biatch in heels…bullies usually get what’s coming to them in the end (in one way or another). *Insert applause*

 

 

 

2 Copies of The Lipstick Laws are being given away

 

Rules:

13+

Open to everyone

Winner must respond within 48 hours

 

 

 

 



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