Author and illustrator Tony Ross skillfully navigates the problem of bullying in this humorously illustrated book. He presents an even-handed story that succeeds in engaging sympathy for both the bully's victim and the bully himself. In a simply-told rhyming tale, a little boy asks his pet dog why a bully is picking on him. "... is it because he's got silly names? Is it because he's no good at games?" After asking many more "is it because" questions, the little boy finally concludes, ". . . perhaps it's because he'd rather be me!" Here is food for thought, told in a style that will appeal to younger boys and girls. Color illustrations on every page.