Kindness Abounds—15 Titles to Support Kindness

I think all our hearts could be buoyed by a shot of kindness, and these books are a perfect way to provide the boost. Whether as read-alouds or additions to the classroom library, these 15 titles are all great for thinking about, talking about, and just soaking in kindness.

A Hat for Mrs. Goldman by Michelle Edwards is an endearing book about friendship, selflessness, and caring for one another. It also demonstrates stamina and persistence.

Be a Friend by Salina Yoon will be treasured by anyone who feels different, expresses themselves in an unconventional way, and longs for friendship.

Be Kind by Pat Zietlow Miller examines the question What does it really mean to be kind? Jen Hill’s illustrations add rich depth to the thoughtful text.

Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson will take readers through a strong range of emotions and, ideally, cause them to examine how their own actions might affect others.

How to Heal a Broken Wing by Bob Graham. You’ll see compassion in action after a young boy discovers an injured bird on the ground in a busy city.

I Walk with Vanessa: A Story About a Simple Act of Kindness by Kerascoët proclaims what an influence we can have if we step in to help when we see someone getting bullied, all without saying a word.

Kindness Grows by Britta Teckentrup. Poetic language, contrasting color palettes, and a creative cutout all come together to demonstrate how our words and actions can create division or something beautiful.

Lubna and Pebble by Wendy Meddour. If you are looking for a tender, hopeful, gentle refugee story to share with children, look no further. It may be the impetus for many thoughtful conversations.

Pandora by Victoria Turnbull. This is a lovely story about the importance of beauty and nature in our lives. I liked that the little bird brought seeds and gifts to Pandora that transformed her space in ways she never could have imagined before this friendship existed. Since the text is sparse, readers will have to attend to the illustrations and make some inferences.

Sidewalk Flowers by JonArno Lawson. This is another very special wordless book. It is interesting, honest, moving, and beautiful, and shows how a giver and a receiver can both be enriched by a simple gift.

Thank You, Omu! by Oge Mora. This is a lovely tale of generosity, community, and kindness. I will admit to momentarily experiencing a moment of selfishness when, after the second visitor, my brain yelled, “Shut the window! Shut the window!”

The Girl and the Bicycle by Mark Pett is another great selection for your Wordless book tub. In addition to kindness, themes of friendship, working hard for what we want, and persistence run throughout.

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig is a moving story of a lonely boy made all the more powerful by Patrice Barton’s fabulous illustrations.

Those Shoes by Maribeth Boelts is a touching story about longing, wanting to fit in, selflessness, and friendship.

What Is Given from the Heart by Patricia C. McKissack. This is one of those books that I closed with a contented sigh and tears in my eyes. Everyone who reads it will feel the joy of giving that pours off the pages.

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