cover image I Can Be Kind

I Can Be Kind

Heather Lester, illus. by Amanda Appiarius. For Good Media, $16.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-9992621-3-9

A sensitive girl named Alice describes what she likes (horses, her bike, “the sound snow makes when you step on it”) and dislikes (roosters that chase her, rising early). Most of all, she doesn’t like it when bad things happen. Her diverse family members offer tips for how she might improve the world, including being kind and brave, and learning from the past and from others. Putting the ideas into action, she stands up to bullies, contributes to a bake sale, and visits a museum, where she views a drawing of black activists carrying protest signs (discussed in back matter). Appiarius illustrates in a straightforward art style, with characters who communicate through clear expressions and dialogue balloons. Lester provides an authentic missive about choosing kindness and making personal connections. Proceeds from book sales go to charities started by kids. Ages 5–6. [em](BookLife) [/em]