Epilogue

Bullying is a major problem in all areas of society. With this story, I hope we can understand the scope and seriousness of this epidemic.

Michael fought hard, but with five jocks holding him down, he was helpless. They managed to jam the urinal soap into his mouth. He choked, and they put their hands over his mouth. “Eat it!” They moved his jaws so he had to chew. Someone held his nose so Michael couldn’t breathe. He was forced to swallow the entire bar of soap. The others laughed as they watched him gag.  –page 7

East Hollywood High is a fictitious school. The characters have been created for story-telling purposes and in no way reflect actual persons. Any similarity to real people is purely coincidental.

The girls clapped and welcomed Morgan into the group. “Here’s our idea,” Cherokee said. “You’re going to show your allegiance by kissing my shoes.” Morgan heard the words, but they didn’t sink in. “I’ll put my foot up on this table, and you’ll put your hands behind your back and kneel down. On my signal, you kiss my shoe.”  –page 12

Many of the incidents are based on actual events. You should be shocked and angered. It is my hope that after reading this, you will not give in to peer pressure or allow bullying to go unreported.

The first punch caught him off guard. It hit him square in the shoulder, and he dropped his violin. The other students quickly leaped from their seats and moved to where Austin stood. Each took his or her turn kicking and punching Austin. This was initiation, the new ritual created for all incoming band members. They were following Principal Cartwright’s orders, and much to their surprise, they enjoyed doing so. Dominating others produced a heady excitement that pulsed in their veins.  –page 30