An American Girl: Chrissa Stands Strong

Chrissa is a new student who moves from Iowa to Minnesota to be near her Nana after her grandfather's death. She faces bullying from the Mean Bees but finds friendship with Gwen. Over time, she learns to speak up, enlist her parents' support, and lead a project against bullying, culminating in a victorious relay and renewed self-confidence.

Gwen is a new friend who initially distances herself because of homelessness but becomes Chrissa's best friend after Chrissa promises not to reveal Gwen's situation. She shares the move to an apartment and supports Chrissa through the bullying crisis with quiet resilience.

Tara is one of the Mean Bees whose bullying escalates after the initial incident. She lies to the principal, participates in spreading rumors, and resents Chrissa’s involvement with Gwen. Her actions drive the conflict until accountability and change begin to appear.

Sonali is part of the bullying trio but chooses to tell the truth about Gwen's homelessness and later apologizes to Chrissa and Gwen, signaling a potential shift toward friendship and a break in the bullying pattern.

Jayden is another member of the Mean Bees who participates in the bullying and poster campaigns. Her actions illustrate the group dynamics that feed on peer pressure and social cruelty.

Mrs. Ziminsky is the principal who suspends Tara for three days and Sonali and Jayden for a day after the truth about the bullying comes out. She reinforces accountability and supports Chrissa during the crisis.

Mrs. Rundell is Chrissa's art teacher who encourages her to involve her parents and channel emotions into constructive action. Her guidance helps Chrissa plan the anti-bullying project and find creative ways to advocate for change.

Nana Hanlon is Chrissa's grandmother in Minnesota who provides warmth and support. The move to be closer to Nana anchors Chrissa's emotional journey as she navigates a new school and builds new friendships.

Tyler Maxwell is Chrissa's older brother. An incident involving him contributes to Chrissa quitting the swim team as bullying escalates, highlighting family dynamics in Chrissa's struggle.