Human Kindness: True Stories of Compassion and Generosity that Changed the World

Review
Selected for The Children's Book Council's Hot off the Press List: September 2022
"Activist author presents examples of changing the world through kindness. Full of biographical, autobiographical, and historical examples, it’s an interesting take on something too little examined." - Betsy Bird, School Library Journal
"This book is filled with intriguing stories of compassion and empathy throughout history, starting with the caring cavemen and ending with present times ... The colorful and creative illustrations created by Josy Bloggs are detailed, thoughtful, and beautiful. She represents diversity by including people of all colors as well as differently-abled individuals." - Rita Long, Portland Book Review
"If there was ever a time when the world needed human kindness, it's right now ... In the book's foreword Francis notes human kindness can be as big as saving someone from a burning building or as simple as a smile." - Jack Fichter, Cape May Star and Wave
"[Human Kindness] discusses the importance of kindness and give suggestions that are easy for kids to act on. The illustrations complement the text beautifully!" - NetGalley (5 starred review)
"With lots of biographical information as well as time lines and background information, this book really does seem to cover everything! The illustrations are interesting and support the text, which is written in an accessible font that is fairly easy to read." - NetGalley (5 starred review)
"This book made me feel good while reading it. Kindness is everywhere and anywhere. It discussed different people and how they spread kindness through living. It has fun facts, quotes, and colorful and bright illustrations! We NEED more books like this for young readers." - NetGalley (5 starred review)
Be inspired by incredible stories of kindness from around the world, and throughout history.
Join the Planetwalker, John Francis, on an exploration of kindness, great and small. From the kindness John has experienced in his own life to the history of how kindness has helped to shape our laws, morals and communities from around the world.
Over the whole history of humankind, kindness has been key to the survival of our species, and to making our world a better place. Learn about Harriet Tubman, who risked her life to help others escape from slavery, the Nomads Clinic, which sends doctors trekking into the Himalayas to tend to patients, The Linda Lindas, a group of young musicians who use their talent to speak up for the rights of others, Joshua Coombes, a hairdresser who gives free haircuts to the homeless, and many others. The joyous and awe-inspiring stories in this book will encourage young readers to be kind to others. And being kind, even in small ways, turns out to be healthy for you, yet another reason to practice kindness every day. It’s our planet to share together—let's be kind.