This summer, while your child is diving into exciting adventures between the pages, why not choose books that will also nurture their character? Research shows that children who engage in prosocial behaviors like kindness and generosity actually score higher on academic tests and show greater progress in subjects like math, reading, and science. Even more encouraging, studies reveal that kindness is becoming increasingly valued in schools alongside academics, with children often linking kindness to helping friends, maintaining friendships, and being inclusive.
As educators and caring adults, we have a beautiful opportunity to combine the joy of summer reading with intentional character building. Here are 10 transformative kindness books perfect for readers in grades 2-5 that will not only entertain but inspire your child to see the world through more compassionate eyes.
Last stop On Market Street
This Caldecott Medal winner follows CJ and his grandmother as they ride the bus across town after church. When CJ questions why they don’t have certain luxuries, his wise grandmother helps him discover the beauty around them and the importance of serving others. This powerful story teaches children to find joy in unexpected places and appreciate their community.
“Each Kindness” by Jacqueline Woodson
Told from the unique perspective of a child who regrets her unkindness, this award-winning book explores what happens when Chloe and her friends reject new student Maya. When Maya eventually stops coming to school, Chloe learns about missed opportunities for friendship and the lasting impact of our choices. It’s a gentle but powerful lesson about empathy and second chances.
“The Invisible Boy” by Trudy Ludwig
Meet Brian, a student who feels overlooked and excluded until new classmate Justin arrives. This heartwarming story shows how one act of inclusion can help someone “invisible” find their voice and shine. Perfect for discussions about noticing others and the power of friendship.
Have You Filled a Bucket Today?: A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids
This beloved book introduces children to the metaphor that everyone carries an invisible “bucket”. We fill others’ buckets through kindness and empty them through unkind words or actions. The simple concept helps children understand how their behavior affects others and themselves, making kindness tangible and memorable.
“Those Shoes” by Maribeth Boelts
Jeremy desperately wants popular sneakers his family can’t afford. When he finds a pair at a thrift store that’s too small, he faces a difficult decision about kindness versus personal desire. This non-didactic story beautifully explores themes of empathy, sacrifice, and finding unexpected rewards in giving.
Be Kind
When Tanisha spills grape juice on her new dress, a classmate contemplates how to help her feel better. This thoughtful picture book explores both big and small ways to show kindness, from asking someone new to play to standing up for others being teased. It helps children understand that you don’t need to be a hero – sometimes small acts make the biggest difference.
“The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson
This beautiful story begins by focusing on how children might feel isolated due to language, customs, or family traditions, then illustrates the courage required to find connections. It’s a powerful reminder to take pride in our own stories while celebrating what makes others unique.
“Enemy Pie” by Derek Munson
This clever tale teaches children not to form opinions about others before truly getting to know them. Through humor and heart, it shows how perceived “enemies” can become treasured friends when we approach them with openness and kindness.
What Does It Mean to Be Kind?
After a young girl helps a new student feel welcome, kindness spreads throughout the community one act at a time. This straightforward book provides concrete examples of kindness in action, making the concept accessible for young readers while showing its ripple effects.
“The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein
This timeless classic explores the power of unconditional love and the joy found in giving to others. Through the relationship between a boy and a tree, children learn about selflessness, gratitude, and how love can take many forms throughout our lives.
Did we miss a book that’s one of your go to favorites? Comment below and share a link.
WRITTEN BY | BRIAN WILLIAMS
Brian Williams is a Global Impact Speaker & Founder of Think Kindness. He has spoken to over 1.1 million people across North America, documented 3.1 Million acts of kindness, traveled to 19 times and has collected over 300K pairs of shoes for children in need.