This book had a surprising yet different and intriguing outlook on bullying. A little boy reflects on why another boy bullies him, asking questions beginning with "Is it because...?" The boy eventually realizes that the bully is treating him this way because he has his own problems, or maybe that he wants to be the boy. This book can teach children to consider other peoples' feelings and try to have sympathy for those who probably have difficult lives. ( )

A boy asks his dog a number of questions about another boy -- "is it because he's got silly names? / is it because he's no good at games? / is it because he's friendless, you see? / is it because he lives in a tree? [etc.] / Is it because...? Oh, I'll never know... why Peregrine Ffrogg has to bully me so. Perhaps it's because... -- I think I can see -- ... perhaps it's because he'd rather be me!"