About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is facing a playdate with a peer who is bossy, aggressive, or lacks physical boundaries. It is especially helpful for the quiet child who feels overwhelmed by a dominant personality. The story follows a young girl dreading a visit from the biting, dinosaur-obsessed Bootsie Barker. It captures the visceral anxiety children feel when they lack the tools to say no to an uncomfortable situation. This 1992 classic is a masterclass in modeling how creativity and firm boundaries can shift power dynamics. Suitable for ages 4 to 8, it provides a safe space to discuss consent and standing up for oneself without adult intervention, showing kids that their voice and imagination are their best defenses.
