Foster and that Bad. B.A.D.D. Bully

The Shenanigans Series

By: Jil Ross

Narrated by: David Dietz

Length: 1 hr and 19 mins

Publisher's summary

Foster's mom announces that she is going to give him 4 VIP tickets to attend a sporting event that's coming to town. The tickets include free entrance, VIP seating, and meals. Foster invites his three closest friends, Lafi, Adam, and Kevin as his guests. The boys are excited. Foster's friend Kevin tells the boys about a bully who has recently been expelled from his school. A boy by the name of Barlow Aldwin Derrick Darden, aka B.A.D.D. On the night of the event a bully is hiding out in the parking lot and tries to steal the tickets from Foster. Foster fights the bully and keeps his tickets. Because it's dark Foster does not get a clear picture of the bully's face. Once break is over and…When Foster opens up his locker to find it full of someone else's belongings, he goes to his teacher to complain. She introduces him to the new boy who just transferred to his school - the bully. Although Foster does not recognize the bully right-a-way, the bully recognizes Foster and has it out for him. The bully terrorizes the school by stealing, taunting the students, disrupting the class…and finally vandalizing cars. Foster is no fighter but chooses not to stand by and allow his school to be victimized by B.A.D.D.

The story is full of strong and entertaining characters.

©2011 Jil Ross (P)2013 Jil Ross

Engaging and comedic spin on a serious topic

Would you consider the audio edition of Foster and that Bad. B.A.D.D. Bully to be better than the print version?

Not sure if 'better' would be a good word, but the audio version does allow for inflections that put emphasis on certain words and actions. I find value in them both.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Foster and that Bad. B.A.D.D. Bully?

When the teacher would not heed Foster's warning about the new kid, the bully. It goes to show that quite often adults are too easy to dismiss what children are saying rather than value their observations and words.

What does David Dietz bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

He give the story a youthful and innocent tone but also he captures the voice of 'youth.' His interpretation of the lead character Foster and his sister Marie is on point.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes. Absolutely. The listening time is just under an hour which keeps kids engaged while on a short distance car ride.

Any additional comments?

Read! Enjoy, spread the word and look for upcoming books from the Shenanigans Series.

A GREAT book for tweens and parents about bullying

Would you listen to Foster and that Bad. B.A.D.D. Bully again? Why?

Oh yes. I work with kids and think this will be a great read for the 9+ age group. The story really lent a cool voice to bullying and how kids can protect themselves and others from the impact of bullying.

Who was your favorite character and why?

What wasn't to love about Foster? HE's a smart and resourceful kid.

What about David Dietz’s performance did you like?

Everything about David Dietz's performance was great! I have read a few of his books. He has a rerfreshing, clear voice. It's a great voice for voicing young people.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I did listen to it in one sitting! The book was engrossing--great, engaging storyline.