As subtle as it may seem, bullying is a form of violence. Research shows that over 75% of today's youth will be exposed to at least some aspect of bullying before they reach high school. The act of bullying has lasting consequences not only for it's victim, but bystanders as well. At the very least, it damages the learning environment and threatens a child's number one concern at school – personal safety.

Patricia Gatto and John De Angelis have written the children's book, MILTON'S DILEMMA.  Richly illustrated by Rhode Island School of Design graduate, Kenneth Vincent, this is the tale of a lonely boy and his struggles with the school bullies. With the help of a mischievous gnome, young Milton embarks on a magical journey to friendship and self-acceptance.

But the authors have taken things a set further to help stop bullying by developing their presentation, Milton's Dilemma and the Consequences of Bullying.  This program addresses the issues in an entertaining yet thought-provoking manner.

They currently perform at schools, libraries, and community events in an effort to help children identify and cope with the negative and aggressive behavior of bullying. Their goal is to foster awareness and provide children with an understanding of their rights to a safe and healthy learning environment.

Inspired by John's personal childhood experience, this husband and wife writing team share their message with an animated reading from their book, original songs, visual aids, and practical advice. In addition, the program provides a platform for educators to build and enforce anti-bullying policies throughout the year as they encourage children to come forward and report incidents of bullying.

MILTON'S DILEMMA is listed on the US Department of Health and Human Services website, Stop Bullying Now as resource material.  The authors are running an offer for radio stations in exchange for airing the HRSA's public service announcement.  If a station picks up the PSA, they will donate copies of their book in a call-in contest, and are willing to present their anti-bullying presentation to a winning school or charity.

To find out more about their offer, contact Joyful Productions on the web at Click here, or call 570-857-0255. The authors/screenwriters are available for interviews and presentations, and are especially interested in participating in fundraisers for the benefit of children.

MILTON'S DILEMMA by Patricia Gatto & John De Angelis. Illustrated by Kenneth Vincent. Providence Publishing Company (Houston). ISBN 0-9651661-9-8. Hardcover, 0.38 x 9 x 7, 32 pages. Children's Picture Book, Ages 6-10. Cover Price $15.95. Publication Date July 2004.

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