One way to teach kindness is through reading inspiring stories that illustrate kindness in different ways. Here are some inspiring books about kindness that will spark reflection and great discussion with your kids.
We’re All Wonders by RJ Palacio
Wonder has been a national best seller since its 2012 debut, and was even made into a feature film. Now the message is being communicated via picture book for younger readers, who will love watching Auggie and his dog Daisy go on an original adventure.
Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid by Jeff Kinney
This spin-off of the Wimpy Kid series focuses on Rowley Jefferson, Greg’s best friend. Rowley puts up with a lot from his so-called friend Greg, including lying and other bad behavior. Kinney’s writing is a great opportunity to have conversations about what it means to be a good friend.
The Invisible Boy by Patrice Barton
Brian is invisible because nobody notices him or includes him in their games or activities. One day Justin, a new student, comes to school, and teams up with Brian on a project. This interaction changes Brian’s life and shows everyone how much he has to offer.
Enemy Pie by Derek Munson
Why did Jeremy have to move to the neighborhood and ruin the summer? Thank goodness for dad’s Enemy Pie recipe. This endearing story of turning an enemy into a friend will amuse and intrigue while teaching a lesson of inclusion.
Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Pena
Each week on Sunday, CJ and his grandma ride the bus across town, and CJ wonders why they don’t have ‘as much’ as other people. Grandma gives him encouraging answers, and teaches him a great lesson.
The Wednesday Surprise by Eve Bunting
Anna’s father is having a birthday soon, and she and her grandmother have been working on a very special surprise. After Anna has been helping her learn to read, her grandmother will read to her father for the first time ever!
Horton Hears a Who! by Dr. Seuss
Horton, a lovable elephant, discovers a tiny community on a speck of dust. He does his best to protect each and every one of them.
The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes
When Wanda, a new girl in school, claims she has one hundred dresses, her classmates ridicule her outlandish claim. In the end, all of her classmates learn a lesson about kindness.
Little Blue and Little Yellow by Leo Lionni
Nearly wordless, this story of friendship is told primarily through the simple, torn-paper artwork of the author-illustrator. A classic which began his career in 1959!
Henry and Mudge by Cynthia Rylant
Henry finds a great relationship with his bug dog Mudge in this first book in an acclaimed easy-to-read series by Newbery winning author Cynthia Rylant.
Any of these excellent books about kindness can spark conversation that, through action, can make the world a better place. So grab a book, read to your child, and see the potential in a little bit of kindness.
Check out all of our activities based on children’s books.