29 Best Kindness Books for Kids

/ January 22, 2020

Here are 29 Best Kindness Books for Kids written by children’s book authors making a difference in this world!  You can’t ever have too much kindness.  Thank you to the authors who came together for this wonderful long list of books about kindness to share with children, parents and educators.

Check out these children’s kindness books for kids with book summaries, plus some authors share where they got the ideas for their books character and/or messages.

29 kindness books for kids

 

Kindness Books for Kids

 

 

EYE SEE YOU: Choosing Kindness

Author: Lisa Caprelli

Illustrator: Davey Villalobos

Publisher: Happy and Fun Lifestyle 

A kids’ favorite unicorn with a musical note for a tail is back with friends old and new in the Unicorn Jazz series! A picture book with hand-drawn, kid-like art that teaches kids to be humble, confident, and proud of who they are.  This is a book for children and adults of all ages with some fun nuggets of humor. 

Woof the Crow comes back with another heart-to-heart conversation with Jazz … and it all began the moment he put on his first pair of eyeglasses. In addition to finding out more about Woof the Crow’s background and family, EYE SEE YOU comes packed with new animal friends like Dr. Nelly the Mole, Billy Bob the Butterfly, Bee Happy the Bumblebee, Asia the Flamingo, Trezekke Zebracorn and more!  A great topic for parents, teachers and educators in this anti-bullying children’s book, with characters showing choices a child can make to be nice versus choosing hurtful words. Like Oprah would share in some giveaways, there is a page in this book where Woof the Crow bringing out his glasses telling his animal friends, “You get a pair, you get a pair, everyone gets a pair.” You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here.

“We all need reminders about how to stay true to ourselves and respect others along the way. Eye See You: Choosing Kindness is a story and series is so fun and inspiring and does exactly that! I highly recommend this book for kids and adults of all ages! Sit back, and enjoy this beautiful nudge to accept ourselves.” -Alexis Maron, MA, RDT/BCT, RADT

Kindness Books for Kids

One Drop of Kindness

Author: Jeff Kubiak

Illustrator: Liliana Mora

Publisher: Edumatch

Kindness…for some, it comes so easy, but for others, it can be a struggle. The answer often lies in a person’s story. Meet Gus, a one-time orphan who goes through life thinking that hurtful words and actions are the only way to behave and communicate with others. Interestingly, Gus lives in a town that holds a mysterious secret which finally gets unlocked by something that was hidden away. By unlocking this secret, you too can join the ripple effect of kindness that Gus, along with his school and town, is experiencing with the rest of the world! This book, along with each of you, will change our world as we know it. It only takes One Drop of Kindness to fill a heart with love. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

Our world needs more kindness. Let’s start in schools and homes! From having foster kids growing up and from my own troubles at school.

“Jeff Kubiak catches the heart of how even a single act of kindness can change an environment of social emotional stress. The baggage of emotional stress kids are forced burden is immense, forcing kids to live their life in survival mode! Jeff captures the true life of children who have been impacted by trauma and the impact a single act of kindness can play to ease the stress of a child living in social emotional turmoil. One Drop of Kindness also allows non trauma impacted children to look through a different set of lens, building a sense of empathy and understanding. Jeff Kubiak’s masterpiece should be read to every child and easily accessible to families of all backgrounds! As a principal, I highly recommend One Drop of Kindness in your school as a guaranteed part of your social emotional curriculum! Jeff is Truly #ChasingGreatness with the adventures of Gus in One Drop of Kindness!” –  Don Epps Principal Royster Middle School

When You Feel Better

 

When You Feel Better: A Get Well Soon Gift

Author: Misty Black

Illustrator: Marina Batrak

Publisher: Berry Patch Press, LLC

 

Join these adorable friends, Bunny and Koala, on a heartwarming journey showing the importance of kindness and the power of empathy.

When Bunny comes to cheer up Koala who is sick, they imagine the fun adventures they want to have when Koala feels better ❤️️ It’s the perfect way to go on a journey without getting out of bed. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here.

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

I wrote this book for my mother. When she was fighting cancer, we never gave up hope. Hope for better days is what gets us through the hard times. It’s my hope that this book will bring a smile to anyone who needs a pick-me-up.

“I have to say that I was beyond impressed when reading this book! The illustrations are beautiful with a classic vibe and the story brought tears to my eyes. As someone with an invisible illness and more sick days than not – I am in love with the inspirational optimism Misty created in her timeless tale. Highly recommended to anyone!”—-Author Bethany Stahl, 5-star and a million more!

 

Cami, Wyatt and Kindness Too

Author: Stacy C. Bauer

Illustrator: Rebecca Sinclair

Publisher: Stacy C. Bauer

This is an activity book with coloring pages, writing and drawing that inspires kids to perform acts of kindness for others. It also has ideas for parents and teachers. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

My children are the main characters, since the book is part of my series. I am a teacher and we really focus on kindness in my classroom, so the idea came from that. 

“This is a wonderful book that inspires kids to do random acts of kindness. Cammie and Wyatt show kindness by sharing, helping others, being a friend and saying positive words to make someone feel better. Every page has an activity or ways to be kind. Highly recommended!” –  Julie Hanson, children’s author

A VERY IMPORTANT POWER: A Time Travel Mouse, Kindness at School Anti-Bullying Book (VIPPI MOUSE TREASURE QUESTS 1)

Author: Wendy Jo Bradshaw

Illustrator: Tobias White

Publisher: ThunderSky Media LLC 

Vippi Mouse is a VIP Investigator & Treasure Hunting Navigator. He guides kids on a time-traveling treasure quest, where they learn about the power of KINDNESS, using his compass invention, based on the GOLDEN RULE – called the COMPASS of COOL. In Vippi Code, it stands for: KINDNESS is COOL, so Be cool AND rule, with the best KIND of power! Which means, always treat people the way you’d like to be treated.”

Vippi and nine-year old Wild West Wendy Jo, time-travel through a treacherous journey where they meet Stinky P.U. the Bully Shoe and the ClaimJumper Ratts. The troubles they run in to, are Stinkin’ Thinkin’, peer pressure, bullying, and self-doubt, until they finally discover their powers of Cool Thinkin’, Choice, and Voice, and turn things around for the better! Vippi and Wendy Jo, change the course of history by choosing the treasures of KINDNESS, DIVERSITY, INCLUSION, EMPATHY, FRIENDSHIP, and being an UPSTANDER for themselves and others. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

I got the idea for the book’s main character, from my own experience as a nine-year old child, who was bullied for being a red-headed tomboy. At the same time, I was very kind to everyone, and an Upstander who stood up for others.

“I highly recommend Wendy Jo Bradshaw’s illustrated chapter book titled A Very Important Power, for kids 7 – 11 years old, and their teachers, school counselors, and librarians! It’s a beautifully illustrated work of fiction, whose main character is a tomboy who is bullied and excluded because she dresses like a boy. Bradshaw’s book is intentionally written as a subtle introduction to gender expression and stereotyping, that benefits not only LGBTQA+ children, but all kids, including those with conservative beliefs.  It also promotes kindness, diversity, inclusion, tolerance, and social skills that empower kids to be their own best solution to bullying, by being Upstanders for kindness, amongst their peers.” – Evelyn E Garlington – University of Utah. Assoc. Dir. Space/Planning Mgn

Kind Ninja

Author: Mary Nhin

Illustrator: Jelena Stupar

Publisher: Grow Grit Press

Acts of kindness, both big and small, can change the world. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

The idea for Kind Ninja was derived by watching my own boys.

“I really enjoy the Ninja: Life Hacks books. They are a simple and fun way to reinforce important character traits in kids! The illustrations are colorful with just the right level of detail so they intrigue and entertain without being over stimulating. The concepts they teach are things we need more of in this world like kindness and forgiving yourself and learning from your mistakes. I highly recommend these books for anyone looking for a fun way to teach kids great things about growing up with integrity!” –Kevin Ball, dad of 2

Lucky’s Adventure in Winter Wonderland

Author: Elizabeth Macy

Illustrator: Jenn Kocsmiersky

Publisher: Image Press is my publishing co. 

Lucky’s Adventure in Winter Wonderland is about friendship, kindness, gratitude and giving back. Lucky enjoys a fun-filled day with her friend’s skiing, skating and snowshoeing. She realizes how lucky she is to be a rescue dog and have so many special friends and a family who loves her. Lucky has her big idea, and surprises her friends with a trip to the rescue shelter to spread kindness and cheer to dogs who are not as lucky. The pals pack up their sleds and bring coats and toys to the shelter. They make new friends and help spread the word about the wonderful dogs at the shelter and help them get adopted.Lucky and her friends realize that making new friends and helping the rescue dogs is the best adventure they can all share. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here.

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

Lucky’s Adventure in Winter Wonderland is the 2nd book in the Lucky’s Adventures Series, inspired by the true story of the author’s rescue dog Lucky.  Lucky was lost for 4 days, and thanks to their community she was safely found. (1st book, Lucky’s Adventure in Saratoga) Lucky’s books continue the themes of friendship, kindness and gratitude as Lucky’s giving spirit grows in this 2nd book in the series.

“As an elementary school educator, I can’t say enough about this story. As a mentor text, it lends itself to lessons about character traits, descriptive language and story elements. I also loved the lessons it teaches young learners about kindness, gratitude and cooperation. The illustrations are colorful and engaging, too. There is no doubt that Lucky will delight young students and be the perfect picture book resource for teachers.” –  Michelle Sebastianelli, teacher

 

Kindness Books for Kids

My Lil’ First School

Author: Toby A. Williams

Illustrator: Corrina Holyoake

Publisher: Toby A. Williams

Being inclusive of others, kind, sharing and keeping a positive attitude throughout the school day, helps Brooke Lynn ease into her new environment.  Along the way, she makes new friends, shares her lunch with a new pal and remembers to thank her teacher. Brooke Lynn’s adorable nature warms the hearts of all readers. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?  

My great-niece, Ava, in which the book is dedicated to was my inspiration as she was heading off to Pre-K.  Donning her over-sized backpack, her expression reminded me of my school days as a young girl. With a bit of fear facing a new school, my mother said to me, “Be brave, kind and always remember your manners.”

“TOBY WILLIAMS HITS IT OUT OF THE BALLPARK with My Lil’ First School.  The author provided me a copy for an honest review. This is a sweet children’s book series that is educational and inspiring.  As with her other two books, My Lil’ First School helps children learn how to not be afraid of that first day. A warm smile and kind words can be the thing that turns a child’s mood from anxious to excited.  A must-read for children at the age they’re entering school”. – Author Susan Wingate

Kindness Books for Kids

The Secret Castle in the Cloud

Author: Vincent Chen

Illustrator: Wallok

Publisher: Vincent Chen

A poor girl embarks on a journey after finding a lot of digital cash and realizing that she is lost in a giant department store. With a dancing elephant by her side, she searches for her mom and spreads kindness to the people she meets along the way.

Your child will learn that no matter how much technology changes the world, the value of kindness will be everlasting. For ages 6+. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here.

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

My kids have been using a lot of the phone and tablet. So I imagined what the world would be like as the next generation of technology evolves. I want a story that shows how technology can help people, and how people can also help each other. Kindness to others and kindness to our family is shown throughout the story.

“The overall story was magical and engaging… I loved that the main character was a girl using tech, this is a very powerful message.” – Anja Smith, Mindfully Augmented

 

Mr Trumpet and the Big, Not-So-Great, Wall

Author: John L.

Illustrator: N/A

Publisher: Strong Kidz Books

This is a story about how a group of friends can overcome heartbreak and separation through working together and believing in one another. People big and small, young and old, near and far, can find strength in caring for one another and building a better world for tomorrow. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

My wife and I decided to write and publish this book as a way to help parents and adults teach and discuss current events with children. For us, it was a way to heal and do something about today’s issues and help our children become kinder and more compassionate than the people before them. 

“Little ears are attentive to what is happening politically, whether in passing or not, both in and out of the home. It’s important that we are open to discussing hard questions in appropriate and transparent ways. We found this book to be a great tool to discuss some hard questions around our current political climate.” – Hanna

kindness books

One Big Bully

Author: Tracy Blom

Illustrator: Sang Nguyen

Publisher: Tracy Blom

This book teaches children and adults alike about the consequences of bullying, and promotes lessons of self-acceptance, forgiveness, and embracing our differences as gifts.  You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here.

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

All of my book ideas come to me in dreams. I kept dreaming of a bull who was mean, and that same week I saw an article in the paper about the nicest bull in Texas, Cowboy Tuff Chex. I reached out to the owner of Tuff and decided we would feature his world-record holding bull in my story and promote kindness at the same time. 

“I read this book to a kindergarten class at the school where I work. I was their mystery reader for the week, and they didn’t know I was coming. These little minds *stared* at me in awe as I read the story. They made comments that made it obvious they understood what the book was talking about, as 5 year olds. At the end, one sweet girl said ‘This is my favorite book ever!!’ Bullying is awful in schools right now, get your kids this book. It really helps put it into terms they understand.” – Sarah Epure

You Taught Me Love

Author: Misty Black

Illustrator: Marina Batrak

Publisher: Berry Patch Press, LLC

There’s nothing quite like the love a mother and child share. This beautifully illustrated book and rhythmic text will bring tears of laughter and joy as you join mother and daughter on a heartwarming journey that describes love through the eyes of a child. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

My daughter and I had a conversation very similar to this one day when she told me, “I love you as big as the world.” I got to thinking all the cute ways children describe love and wanted to capture the magic in a children’s book. :

“You Taught Me Love will charm the reader with the love and compassion equal to the heart-warming story by Robert Munch, Love You Forever. The young reader will be instantly enthralled and drawn into the warmth of the love expressed in the story.” – Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers’ Favorite – Rated 5 stars

Leonardo the Lion Series

Author: Jessica Sinatra

Illustrator: Olga Ladyga

Publisher: Immortal Ink Publications 

Leonardo the Lion stories deliver the message of kindness through acceptance. Seeing and accepting others for their unique and beautiful qualities. Leonardo the Lion and friends overcome obstacles that we may encounter in our lives and their choices and actions teach the reader the importance of love and friendship. The message of Leonardo the Lion Series is to respect and accept our differences – stripes, shapes, and colors. It is the greatest kindness we can teach and learn.  You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here.

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

The main character was inspired by my godson, who was born in August (a Leo). The theme and storyline was created based on my experiences growing up with a disability, Cerebral Palsy and lumbar hyperlordosis. 

“Told in rhyme by Jessica Sinatra with delightful illustrations by Olga Ladyga, the story of Ellie the elephant and her friends in the African savannah is more than a charmingly told tale. It also offers a vital lesson about knowing oneself that is important at any age.” – Jessica B. Harris, author, food historian, professor 

Oy, Elephants!

Author: Deborah Stevenson

Illustrator: Morgan Spicer

Publisher: Frog Prince Books

Joel is visiting his grandparents in their Florida retirement community, when a pair of retired circus elephants move in next door. The neighbors are up in arms about elephants moving in, but Joel’s grandparents welcome the elephants, invite them to spend the afternoon at the pool, and come for dinner afterward. What follows is a wild and humorous adventure, with a lesson for the whole community and readers, about the wonderful things that can happen when we’re kind and include those who are different from us. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

The grandparents in the story are based on my real grandparents, and they were the inspiration for the characters and much of the storyline. My grandmother made friends with EVERYONE, everywhere she went, and made them feel welcomed and special. The story idea itself was inspired by the real-life news event of the Barnum and Bailey circus elephants retiring to Florida. It was a serious news story with very important implications for the plight of circus elephants, but I couldn’t help seeing some humor in the image of circus elephants retiring to a Florida retirement community,  The story grew from there and includes many special memories of my grandparents, both with me, and later, with my son.

“This is the cutest book ever! My eight-year-old granddaughter LOVED it, as did I! This book draws you in immediately and when the elephants enter the scene, it is kind of unexpected that they weren’t there by accident, or that they didn’t belong to someone… they were the actual neighbors. Not telling anymore! You have to read it. My granddaughter said this is one of her favorites now. We could probably read this one over and over again. It will stir up the imagination in any child and make them envision themselves in the book.” – Amazon Reader Review 

 

Who Am I

Author: Suzanne Mulcahy

Illustrator: Patty O’Rourke

Publisher: Panda Heart Publishing  (My publishing company so really independent)

This book is about a young panda who takes a journey to discover who he is.  He discovers his heart as the most important thing about who he is. His heart holds all of his special gifts, the gifts of kindness, love, friendship, etc. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

I am a retired school psychologist and the skill level of self-identity is critical in changing challenging behavior into kind and compassionate behavior in children.  The most important aspect is when they discover their hearts and their special gifts they can give to others.

“Who Am I? by Suzanne Mulcahy is a wonderful children’s book about love and friendship. The beautiful pictures add to the message of feelings and awareness.  I look forward to sharing this book in our school library.” – School Librarian 

The Happiest Birthday Ever

Author: Stephanie Berger

Illustrator: N/A

Publisher: Covenant Books

Ben is turning 7 years old and he invites his friends to do seven random acts of kindness to celebrate. The group of friends find out how much fun it is to spread kindness. Having a random acts of kindness birthday party can make the best birthday ever! You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

The Happiest Birthday Ever is inspired by my 40th birthday when I did 40 random acts of kindness in one day.

“The best testimonial is seeing The Happiest Birthday Ever inspire kids to spend their special day/birthday spreading kindness around town. I have pictures and social media posts from residents around town that have received random acts of kindness based on this book. One boy in particular was standing outside of our local grocery store with a card (like the one shown in the book) saying that today is his birthday and he is spreading kindness. Along with the card, he was passing out flowers. People that received these flowers/cards commented on facebook how his small act of kindness changed their mood and made their day. It’s one thing to talk about being kind, but it’s so amazing so see kids actually put it into action.

Grandmas Are Gorgeous!

Author: Trina Licavoli Gunzel

Illustrator: Trina Licavoli Gunzel

Publisher: Author House

KINDNESS is truly the heart of Grandmas Are Gorgeous in the deeper message that the way we treat others is what really makes someone beautiful.  Kindness is something that we create and celebrate in our homes.

This book is inspired by loving memories shared through the kindness and teachings of grandmothers.  Reflecting on positive childhood experiences allows application of knowledge to help us in our future.  Special snacks, tender moments, traditions, and encouragement are heart-warming, shared and illustrated in vivid colors.  Readers are encouraged to write stories about their grandmas to celebrate kindness and love that is passed on through generations in families.  When we honor our loved ones through stories, they remain close to our hearts. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

I wanted to start my family series by honoring Grandmothers and sharing special memories from a child’s perspective.

“I ordered this book for my 6 and 7 year old, they loved it! It is a sweet story about how special grandmas are. After reading it, they started listing all the things that make their grandmas special. The author/ illustrator did a fantastic job! This is the perfect gift for kids of all ages and those special grandmas.” –  Sarah White – 5 Stars On Amazon!

From the Author:  My family and I are on a 50 state tour spreading a message of kindness.  We created a free membership site so that people can start stacking wins through doing acts of kindness and creating new ways to grow.  Anyone can join the free challenge here that has been featured on Good Morning Arizona: www.50daysofsuccess.com

The Thankful Mermaid: I Am Kind

Author: Hayley Rose

Illustrator: Lynx Animation Studios

Publisher: Flowered Press

The Thankful Mermaid: I Am Kind is a coloring book/gratitude journal I one.  This innovative and uplifting coloring book is all about building self-esteem, promoting positivity and inspiring creativity in kids and adults alike.

This glittered, hardcover bound journal is filled with inspiring quotes, positive actions, and whimsical mermaid scenes with beautiful sea creatures, that will be sure to delight even the young at heart, leading to a more confident, kind and creative human. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here.

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

After the loss of my patents, I needed a way out of grief, and gratitude is scientifically proven to rewire the brain to make you happier.  Giving thanks helps you become more aware of. I married my love of mermaids with gratitude, coloring to calm and help with anxiety, affirmations and self-love prompts to help with self-esteem, and goal setting.  The Thankful Mermaid has truly changed my life and I my goal is to help tweens, teens and adults become happier, kinder and more confident.

“I LOVED this! This kind of daily journal is exactly the thing I wanted for my girl, I’m looking forward to buying more! Every page is beautiful and fun to illustrate, but inspires your child to confidence and gratitude. I absolutely love this and know my daughter will benefit from such positive self-talk daily. Highly, highly recommend!” ~ Dana, Amazon Review

“Students who expressed gratitude reported feeling more elevated – and these feelings of elevation were linked with exerting more effort on their kind acts for others. Therefore, elevation may be one way that expressing gratitude can motivate students to try harder to be a better, kinder person.” ~ Great Good Magazine.

 

Quincy the Quail and the Mysterious Egg

Author: Barbara Renner

Illustrator: Amanda M. Wells

Publisher: Renner Writes

Starting a family can be a daunting task, especially when plans are interrupted. Quincy the Quail has to make a decision more important than helping his mate, Quella, incubate their eggs. He needs to decide what to do with a mysterious egg that suddenly appears next to their home. Because of his compassion and kindness, the quail family found life-long friendship from an unlikely character. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here.

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

I’ve recently read a lot of stories about wildlife caring for and becoming friends with species other than their own. I thought it would be a great message for children to know that they don’t have to be the same or look the same in order to be kind to others.

“In a world that needs more kindness, Barbara Renner uses the story of Quincy and his family to model a way to show kindness, in “Quincy the Quail and the Mysterious Egg.” Not only does Renner demonstrate the theme of kindness but also that learning is fun.” – By Gail Kamer for Readers’ Favorite

Ella and One Tiny Thing

Author: C. L. Fails

Illustrator: C. L. Fails

Publisher: LaunchCrate Publishing

The first in the series, Ella and One Tiny Thing is about the Power of One; how one person can have a ripple effect on the world. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

This book and all other “Power”-ful books in the series are inspired by watching my mom navigate through the world.

“This book is fantastic. It has a simple, easily conveyed, beautiful message. I read this book to a friend’s fifth grade class and it inspired great, meaningful discussion with the children. I highly recommend it for people of all ages and am excited for Ella’s next adventure!” –  Laura Sachen

Eli and the Fisherman

Author: Andrew Glen

Illustrator: J.J. Anderson

A heartwarming tale of a  young boy who has helped to carry an old man’s fish to market, whenever he returned home from fishing, becomes worried when the old man unexpectedly fails to return one night. He then decides to take matters into his own hands and goes out in search of him. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

The inspiration for this book came from Ernest Hemingway’s Old Man and the Sea’, my favourite book by my favourite author. Eli is also the name of my first son and I wrote the book for him. 

“Best children’s book I have read in ten years or so. I hope that you buy it and read it to your children as many times as I have for my children.” – Tom Shea

Anything else we should know?

I am also a Stage IV bladder cancer survivor and began writing children’s stories after I was diagnosed in 2008; in case I didn’t make it my kids would have something to remember me by. Fortunately I am still here, and still writing.

Mama’s Map: Jellibean Adventures Book 2

Author: Cindi Handley Goodeaux 

Illustrator: Sanghamitra Dasgupta 

Publisher: Crimson Cloak Publishing 

Mama’s Map: Jellibean Adventures Book 2 is about a Shy Possum named Penelope. Shy Penelope Possum is lost. Princess Jellibean joins her quest in looking for clues to find the way back home. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

Princess Jellibean is a character that was inspired by my two nieces. She grew up sheltered but has grown up to explore the world she only read about as a child. Princess Jellibean is kind, curious to learn, loves to read, make new friends, and discover the joy of new adventure. Her tagline is “Be kind. Be Curious. Be YOU!” 

“Mama’s Map: Jellibean Adventures Book 2 by Cindi Handley Goodeaux is an adorable adventure story filled with loads of action, fun, adventure, friendship, and finding new things. Princess Jellibean, the multi-colored cat, will enthrall young readers and, with Penelope the Possum, she makes the adventure memorable to readers. Sanghamitra Dasgupta gives a good pace and movement to the story with her bright and colorful illustrations and gives the characters a personality of their own. The story will win the hearts of all animal lovers. It is a good book for storytelling at home and in schools as it captures the joy of traveling, adventure, friendship, and helping others beautifully. It is a perfect way to teach children life lessons when it comes to helping others in need.” – Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers’ Favorite Review

Festeva’s Holiday Cheer

Author: Molly McCluskey-Shipman

Publisher: Liftbridge Publishing

What happens when the world is overwhelmed and sad? If you’re Eva a normal dog by day, you turn into Festeva and begin an adventure of spreading kindness through holiday cheer! Join Festeva as she makes her way through the day and helps the humans she encounters feel the holiday spirit. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here or Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

Volunteering in animal rescue, you can’t help but notice the dog’s happiness despite circumstances.  I felt that a dog doing good deeds would be relatable and joyful for children!

“Fantastic Story! Not just for kids, this is a great heartwarming story for all ages.” – Stephanie Kallas – 5.0 out of 5 stars 

Kindness Books for Kids

I Was Dreaming Again

Author:  Shih Han Kuo (Nini)

Illustrator: Shih Han Kuo (Nini)

Publisher: Shih Han Kuo (Nini)

I Was Dreaming Again is a small inspirational storybook carrying the message to remind readers on the journey of exploring and interacting with the world, don’t forget to also be kind to yourself. In this generation, every individual is in full run to find a place in “the real world” but when fighting the ongoing pressures in life, treasuring the relationships of family and friends, make sure to find time to relax and be inclined to your personal thoughts and happiness. Never doubt the power of dreaming because we have the ability to make it happen. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here.

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

The inspiration for this book came when I felt really overwhelmed during my junior year in high school. Throughout those semesters my heart seems to be hovering near my throat, and I never seem to have the opportunity to even take a relaxing breath buried underneath never-ending assignments, club activities, and college courses. But it’s still with great surprise and thankfulness  I was given this opportunity to write this book to express myself, and to motivate others who may be feeling under the weather and temporarily blinded of the colors and good around our world.

Anything else we should know?

I’m a high school student who was given such an amazing opportunity to express my passion for creating art and inspiring others at the age of seventeen. It’s such a dream come true to see what that I was capable of doing this after a series of obstacles that ran in the way. I want to thank deeply from the heart, Ms.Lisa Caprelli for giving me this opportunity!

Ceecee’s Treasure Chest 

Author: Catherine West-McGrath 

Illustrator: Adam Walker-Parker 

Publisher: Catherine West-McGrath

Ceecee’s Treasure Chest is a children’s story about the gift of being kind to ourselves. We are all born with a treasure chest of Love, Hope and Joy inside which we must learn to look after. In the story Ceecee’s dad explains about the treasure chest as he hands it over to her keeping on her twelfth birthday. As the rhyme on the back reads, ‘Every boy and every girl has a treasure chest to hold. Some are given, some are hidden, and in each you’ll find your gold.’ You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

I wanted to create a book series to spark conversations about emotional well being. This book is about Self Compassion. Self compassion is about accepting ourselves and being kind to ourselves. I don’t think we can accept and be kind to others if we can’t accept and be kind to ourselves.

“’This is a lovely story and so inspiring.” – Anne Marie Clitherow 

No One Mocks a Panda

Author: Paolo Mazzucato

Illustrator:  Paolo Mazzucato

Publisher: BepiBooks

No matter how different we may be, it takes all kinds, shapes, colors and sizes to make the world a special, wondrous place, and “whatever kind of beast you are, smile in the world’s embrace. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

Children are born into a world of growing diversity, and teaching acceptance for all, no matter how different they may be, is a lesson they should hear early and often.

Kindness Gets A Thumbs Up!

Author: Brenda Li

Illustrator: Brenda Li

Publisher: Summer and Muu

Explaining kindness to children with easy and entertaining visual cues: Whenever an act of kindness is carried out, the sad emoji changes into a yellow happy face! You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here.

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

Inspired by all the hate and bullying around the world, telling me that this world needs more love and kindness.

“This book explains the meaning of kindness in an extremely easy and entertaining way that kids love and understand!” – Yvonne C.

Baby Lauren and Theodore

Author: Deborah Sherrell

Illustrator: Danielle Larripa

Publisher: Healing Tree Arts

This beautifully illustrated book promotes kindness towards others (family, friends, neighbors, etc.)  and a real love for nature. Compassion and hope are also important concepts highlighted in the story. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here.

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message?

My youngest daughter, Lauren, was the inspiration for the story when she was a young child.  I wrote this book as a “penance” for removing a tree after an earthquake (it was too close to the house). I later discovered she had loved the same tree and named it Theodore.   

“…Baby Lauren and Theodore inspires us to respect and embrace an ever-changing life and encourages us to live in harmony with all living things. This delightful story is sure to touch your heart and speak to you in a very special way.” – Adele Marie Luttrell, Author and family therapist

Angel Marie has VERY Big Ears!

Author: Terri Whiting

Illustrator: Tracy Connelly

Publisher: Little Angel Books, LLc

Angel Marie was a real dog that no one wanted to adopt because of her VERY big ears! She eventually finds love and acceptance despite her looks. You can find/purchase this book by clicking Here

Where did you get your idea for this book’s character and message? 

She was my loving companion for over 15 years. 

“An inspiring story about being different and still being loved, just as you are!! With a lot of heart and beautiful illustrations!!  Kindle reader”

 

Thank you to the authors who came together for this wonderful long list of books about kindness to share with children, parents and educators.

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