Bullying Book ‘The One We Left Behind’ Optioned by ‘Henry Danger’ Director Mike Caron (Exclusive)
Director Mike Caron has optioned Sara Coven’s award-winning middle-grade novel *The One We Left Behind* for a feature film, with writer Sean Lavery set to adapt it. The project marks a move beyond Caron’s television work towards family-focused feature films, and aims to explore bullying in greater depth.
Set in the 1990s, the story follows 13-year-old Evan, whose standing among the “cool kids” is tested when he is paired at lunch with William, a new pupil with severe food allergies who is mocked by classmates. Their developing friendship leads Evan to confront peer pressure and the bullying of someone he cares about. The independently published novel was one of six national finalists in Kirkus’ inaugural Children’s Literature Indie Awards and won first place for its audiobook at BookFest.
- Mike Caron has optioned *The One We Left Behind* for a feature film.
- Sean Lavery will write the adaptation.
- The story centres on friendship, food allergies and bullying.
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The One We Left Behind is a children’s novel set in the 1990s, when 13-year-old Evan is part of a popular group at school. He is paired at lunch with William, a new pupil with severe food allergies who is mocked by other children.
As Evan and William become friends, Evan has to decide how to respond when classmates bully someone he cares about. The story explores how pressure to fit in can affect a young person’s choices and friendships.