A Small Kindness

It’s the first day at school, and everyone is feeling a little shy and uncomfortable. As the children are putting their backpacks in their cubbies, Alice turns and smiles at Lucas. At the desks, Lucas greets Jasmine. During circle time, Jasmine lets Xavier have a turn holding the class hamster. And on it goes, one kindness generating another kindness as the children and their teacher get to know each other. And what does kindness do for other people? Well, it brightens their days. And that is the method used to show how important kindnesses can be in this charming picture book. The art in the opening pages is all sepia tones except for the one character who is doing something kind. That character is in full color. On the next pages, as the kindness begins to spread from one character to another and another, the colors spread as well. Author Stacy McAnulty has written a sweet text, but the real treat here is now illustrator Wendy leach has imbued McAnulty’s idea into her beautiful artwork. The subtle message will come through loud and clear to young readers. This enchanting book will become a fast favorite.