Cool to be Kind: Kids’ Books on Kindness

Sure, February is all about romantic love, but we also want to celebrate the love for others that shines through simple acts of kindness. Kim Tano, the children’s book buyer at Powell’s City of Books, helped us out by selecting her favorite kids’ books on kindness for toddlers to tweens. (And, good news: The Burnside, Hawthorne and Cedar Hills Powell’s locations are now open for in-person browsing. You can always order online at powells.com.)

Kindness Makes Us Strong by Sophie Beer
From the author of Love Makes a Family, Kindness Makes Us Strong is a perfect tool for teaching the language of kindness to young readers. From simple acts of kindness to the bigger concepts of generosity and how it affects our inner strength, this board book is a great addition to any home with kids 2 and up. $11.99.

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Penguin Problems by Jory John and Lane Smith
Poor Penguin! His beak is cold. He doesn’t like snow. He’s not buoyant enough. He feels silly when he waddles and he has to deal with all the squawking! Can Walrus persuade him to view life differently and appreciate all that he has? A charming picture book that teaches kindness and compassion. Ideal for kids ages 3 and up. $8.99.

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Extra Yarn by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen
Annabelle discovers a magical box full of yarn of every color. After she knits herself and her dog a cozy sweater, there is extra yarn. She continues to knit sweaters for her community, and people come from all over the world to meet Annabelle. Is the yarn box magical? Or is Annabelle? This Caldecott Award winner is great for ages 4 and up.  $17.99. 

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Front Desk by Kelly Yang
Ten-year-old Mia loves running the front desk at the hotel her parents manage while they clean the rooms. However, if the mean motel owner finds out about her parents letting immigrants stay in the empty rooms, everyone will be in big trouble. But Mia’s and her parents’ kindness makes it hard to say no to people in need. Perfect for ages 9 and up! $7.99.