What are you staring at?: A Comic About Restorative Justice in Schools

Restorative practitioners know there is always a story behind the story, often several. This delightful comic book is a wonderful narrative about how stories come together and, with the right process, can bring healing. Its focus on feelings and thoughts and how these lead to decisions and misunderstandings will give children permission to talk about the sorts of things that have a huge influence on our behaviour. It will be a worthy addition to resources aimed at primary school students and a useful platform to explain restorative problem-solving to young people. I can't wait to have my own copy to show to schools and parents. Margaret Thorsborne, restorative consultant, practitioner, trainer and author

The scenario and reactions were very realistic. I personally can't wait to use it with at least two of my boys! Hannah Severn, Senior Practitioner, Burbank

I really enjoyed reading this comic. I found it moving, and think that parents and adults will get as much out of it as children. Jo Brown, Anti-Bullying Co-ordinator

This is a really lovely comic. Blessed be the peacemakers. Hilary Wainer, Early Years Special Education Inclusion Teacher

Punishment does not help to get to the bottom of why conflicts start in the first place, nor does it help to put things right between those in conflict. Here is a book that shows a different way - and it does so using a realistic story, beautifully illustrated. Ryan and Jake thought there was no way out of the situation they found themselves in - until a kind adult offered a listening ear and a set of really useful conflict resolution skills. The approach she used is based on something called 'restorative justice'. Check it out - it's not hard to learn and you could help your friends, and your teachers, to handle conflicts more effectively. Belinda Hopkins, Director at Transforming Conflict, National Centre for Restorative Approaches in Youth Settings

The comic is brilliant for my students, we could do a whole lesson plan on it. Many of our children come to school in a negative state and could understand how Jake feels when he is seen crying. It creates a good solid base for getting them to think of their personal situations. Sharon Hall, Teaching Assistant

?If you've not been trained in restorative practices but think it's something you'd like to know more about and try with your students then read this book. If you already use restorative practices in your school or youth setting and want to explain what's going to happen with children or parents then I strongly recommend you have some copies to hand. Restorative practices that seek to repair relationships are an important tool when it comes to permanent resolution of bullying incidents. This book will give you the confidence you need to try it.' Lauren Seager-Smith, National Co-ordinator, Anti-Bullying Alliance