The Great Zebra Debate
by Tony Bethel
Meet Brendan and Sheila, two zebras who are bullied at Ms Simba’s International Boarding School for Gifted Animals.
One day, the insults become too much, so Ms. Simba suggests that the two sides have a debate to settle the score instead. Who will win, the fact-driven zebras or their smug bullies?
With help from their fellow classmates, the zebras learn some things about other animals that help them in the debate.
Will their brain power be enough to save the day?
The Great Zebra Debate is a story about being strong enough to accept a challenge…and smart enough to accept your friends’ help.
In the Spotlight
Podcast with Lori Floyd
The Inspiration Behind Children’s Book Author Tony Bethel’s Top-Rated Book.
Book Review
By Cari Hitchcock
In The Great Zebra Debate, Tony Bethel delivers a powerful and timely message wrapped in humor, heart, and vibrant storytelling. Through Brendan and Sheila’s journey at Ms. Simba’s International Boarding School in Kenya, young readers learn that words are stronger than fists, facts matter more than insults, and true “cool” comes from confidence and community.
Cari Hitchcock, Creator of The Adventures of Baby Brown Bear Series and Wife of Air Supply’s Russell Hitchcock
What I love most about this book is how it transforms bullying into a teachable moment. Instead of responding with anger, the zebras are guided to “win with words and ideas, instead of hitting and biting.” That lesson alone makes this story a must-read for classrooms and families everywhere.
Tony weaves in themes of non-violence, friendship, cultural awareness, and teamwork … reminding children that when we stand together, use our minds, and support one another, we can overcome negativity with grace. The triumphant moment when Brendan and Sheila declare, “We used our minds and found facts” beautifully captures the heart of the story.
The Great Zebra Debate is a thoughtful, empowering book that encourages children to celebrate differences, defend themselves with intelligence, and surround one another with kindness, just like zebras do.
Highly recommended for young readers, educators, and anyone who believes in raising strong, thoughtful, compassionate children.
About the Author
Tony Bethel
Tony Bethel lives in Evanston, Illinois, and works at a facility that cares for those with developmental disabilities of all ages and backgrounds. He has written books of poetry and memoir, and is a co-author of the inspirational best-seller Shift Happens, along with Nikki Woods and others. He is also an Alumni of the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, where he received a B.S. in Psychology, and also studied Child and Developmental Psychology.
Tony went on a Safari trip to Kenya in 2024, and the animals he saw there inspired him to write this story. Tony also desires to see children develop and have happy and healthy lives…bully-free. You can connect with Tony on Facebook and Instagram.
Tony Bethel Books 