Desmond and the Very Mean Word

Based on a true story from Archbishop Desmond Tutu's childhood in South Africa, Desmond and the Very Mean Word reveals the power of words and the secret of forgiveness.

When Desmond takes his new bicycle out for a ride through his neighborhood, his pride and joy turn to hurt and anger when a group of boys shout a very mean word at him. He first responds by shouting an insult, but soon discovers that fighting back with mean words doesn't make him feel any better. With the help of kindly Father Trevor, Desmond comes to understand his conflicted feelings and see that all people deserve compassion, whether or not they say they are sorry. Brought to vivid life in A. G. Ford's energetic illustrations, this heartfelt, relatable story conveys timeless wisdom about how to handle bullying and angry feelings, while seeing the good in everyone.

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Candlewick Press (MA)
Published: 12/03/2012
ISBN: 9780763652296
Pages: 32
Weight: 1.05lbs
Size: 11.40h x 10.00w x 0.40d

Review Citations: Publishers Weekly 11/12/2012
Kirkus Reviews 12/01/2012
Booklist 02/01/2013 pg. 54
School Library Journal 04/01/2013 pg. 145
New York Times Book Review 05/12/2013 pg. 21
Hornbook Guide to Children 07/01/2013 pg. 47 - Recommended, Satisfactory

Accelerated Reader Quiz #/Name: 157355 / Desmond and the Very Mean Word
Reading Level: 3.9 / Interest Level: Lower Grade / Point Value: 0.5