“Acts and words of kindness DO count, and it all starts with ONE.” This is the last line of a beautiful book that illustrates the impact of one act of kindness. At the end of the book the author gives children easy ways to make a difference in the world around them. She also has a list of books and websites to further help kids (and adults) see how their words and actions influence others.

Kitten wants to learn Tae Kwon Do and she wants to learn it right now! She soon discovers that she will need to focus, have patience and work hard for her goal. From the publisher: “Catkwondo encapsulates the qualities of respect, discipline, and mindfulness that encompass Tae Kwon Do. Readers will appreciate and relate to the main character’s journey of trying and failing – before ultimately succeeding – at a new activity.”

If you have never read a novel-in-verse then this is the place to start. Beyond Me tells the story of the earthquake and tsunami that ravaged Japan in 2011 through the voice of 11 year old Maya. From the publisher: “In the wake of such devastation, what can she do that could possibly make a difference? But the smallest moments of kindness can lead to seismic change.” This is a story of determination and hope that will encourage readers that even when circumstances are overwhelming there are small, significant things that can be done to make a difference.

Isaiah is a 10 year old boy dealing with the death of his father, the loss of his home and having to grow up far to soon to help his little sister and his grieving mother. This book deals with with the subjects of homelessness, death, bullying, friendship, cooperation, empathy, and love. Isaiah finds strength in poetry, he finds hope in the caring of community and he finds courage while reading his father’s stories about a super hero named “Isaiah Dunn.” This is a moving story of facing adversity and finding resilience.

From the publisher: Introducing mindfulness into the lives of our children and teenagers is perhaps the greatest gift we can offer. Mindfulness builds emotional intelligence, boosts happiness, increases curiosity and engagement, reduces anxiety and depression, soothes the pain of trauma, and helps kids (and adults) focus, learn, and make better choices. This is a guide to introducing mindfulness into the lives of children and teenagers. Growing Up Mindful helps parents, educators, and counselors learn how to embody and share the skills of mindfulness that will empower children with resilience throughout their lives. Includes more than 75 accessible exercises and practices.