Each Kindness  

Author and Illustrator: Jacqueline Woodson

Grades K-6

The book provides an opportunity for children to see the impact of treating others with kindness and what can happen if an opportunity to be kind is missed. Students can connect with the characters in the book and it can stir discussion on the perspectives of the characters. It can also be used for lessons on inference as well as social emotional teaching.

The story is from Chloe’s perspective of the new student in school, Maya. Chloe and her friends won’t talk with Maya or include her in their play. Maya has moved in from another school, wearing second hand clothes, and playing with old dolls. Maya attempts to become a part of Chloe’s group but she is rejected by them.

I have read this book several times to students and it always leads to an interesting discussion from both characters perspectives. There are many things to inference and discuss throughout the book as you read and students think through what is happening. The story touches on friendship, inclusivity, feelings of rejection, the importance of kindness, and consequences for not being kind. The book produces a great opportunity for writing and student connection with the characters. I highly recommend this book. The author has created several more books related to similar lessons as well, I have listed some links below:

Author Read Aloud: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kj7Oc0ZoOjM

Other books by this author: http://www.jacquelinewoodson.com/category/books-ive-written/