18 Winter Holiday Picture Books for Kids to Celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Ramadan & Beyond

Cozy up with compassionate holiday tales.

The spirit of wonder, hope, and generosity in each story below helps us see clearly that people everywhere have so much in common, even amid our beautiful differences. Find stories in the list below that celebrate winter holidays including Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Ramadan, Diwali, Winter Solstice, Saint Lucia Day, and more.

Ready for more? See our discussion guide to accompany these winter holiday picture books.

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Featured Title

Lailah’s Lunchbox: A Ramadan Story by Reem Faruqi
Lailah is finally old enough to fast for Ramadan. But as a new girl in a new country, she worries about how her classmates will react.

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More DGT Favorites

A Hanukkah with Mazel Joel Edward Stein
Misha, a lonely artist, befriends a cat, Mazel. He works to make Hanukkah special for his new friend. Though they have very little, young readers will learn that holidays can be very special with the simplest gifts and a little creativity. Ages 3 to 8.

A World of Christmas Cookies: Follow Santa's Tasty Trip Around the World by M. E. Furman
Featuring delicious recipes from around the world, this creative story will add flavor and global appreciation to your holiday. Ages 4 to 8.

A Winter Candle by Jeron Ashford
Residents of one apartment building are each celebrating family traditions during the holidays. One by one, each family discovers they are missing an important part of their holiday - a candle. This lovely story follows the candle as it is passed from family to family, lighting a gatherings for the Sabbath, Saint Lucia Day, Kwanzaa, and others. Ages 5 to 11.

December by Eve Bunting
Simon and his mom don’t have much–the cardboard house they built for themselves, a tiny Christmas tree, and a picture of an angel on the wall. On Christmas Eve they take in a frail stranger who needs a place to keep warm, and the next morning Simon wakes early to find that the woman has vanished. Instead, he sees the angel from the picture, with her wings fanned out over their cardboard house. Could she be real?

The Gift Inside the Box by Adam Grant and Allison Sweet Grant
Empathy expert Adam Grant has teamed up with his wife Allison Sweet Grant to bring us this engaging and heart-warming story featuring a mysterious gift in search of someone to open him. Intentionally designed to ignite conversations about greed, selfishness, and giving, this modern-day fable is remarkably fun and engaging too.

Oskar and the Eight Blessings by Rich Simon and Tanya Simon
Set in 1938, Oskar is a Jewish immigrant new to the U.S. Follow him as he walks through New York City on the seventh day of Hanukkah and Christmas Eve. Along the way, he takes in New York landmarks and experiences small acts of kindness from many strangers, making him feel welcome in his new home. Ages 4 to 8.

The Gift of Nothing by Patrick McDonnell
What do you get for the friend who has everything? Nothing, of course! Patrick McDonnell’s The Gift of Nothing is the light-hearted tale of one dog’s quest to find just the right nothing to give his special friend. Ages 4 to 8.

The Quiltmaker's Gift by Jeff Brumbeau
A talented seamstress makes beautiful quilts for the poor and the homeless. When the king who has everything decides he must have one of her creations, she tells him he must give away everything; then she will give him a quilt. In the process of shedding his many possessions, the king finds true happiness. No summary can do justice to the mesmerizing, fairy-tale quality of this beautifully illustrated tale. Ages 4 to 8.

The Trees of the Dancing Goats by Patricia Polacco
This story featuring the joy of giving is told with the incomparable sensitivity and bewitching style of all Polacco's books. Young Trisha and her family are preparing for Hanukkah when they learn that their Christian neighbors are coping with a scarlet fever epidemic. Unable to celebrate while their neighbors are suffering, Trisha’s family reaches out to help. Ages 5 to 10.

Great Joy by Kate DiCamillo
This is one of the sweetest, most elegant books of the season. Great Joy is the tale of an organ grinder, his monkey, and the little girl who worries over whether he has a place to go in the storm. Ages 4 to 8.

Gus and Grandpa and the Christmas Cookies by Claudia Mills
When Gus goes to Grandpa’s house to bake Christmas cookies, they discover that they don’t have any sprinkles. On the way to the store, they pass a Santa collecting money for the poor. Gus contributes two quarters and is rewarded with a “God bless you.” Returning home, Gus and Grandpa are visited by three neighbors, each bringing two dozen cookies. What are they to do with so many cookies? Gus knows! Ages 5 to 8.

Hanukkah Haiku by Harriet Ziefert
Celebrate the eight nights of Hanukkah with a haiku for each night and a clever, beautifully design book that is lovely to read again and again. Ages 4 to 8.

Lights for Gita by Rachna Gilmore
Young Gita is excited to celebrate her favorite holiday for the first time after her family immigrated from India: Diwali, a festival of lights. But when Gita's plans fall apart, Gita gets very homesick. With the help of family and friends, Gita discovers that she carries the light of Diwali inside her wherever she goes. Ages 5 to 8.

Seven Spools of Thread: A Kwanzaa Story by Angela Shelf Medearis
This charming fable introduces readers to the seven principles of Kwanzaa and life lessons everyone can appreciate.

The Shortest Day: Celebrating the Winter Solstice by Wendy Pfeffer
Learn about the way various cultures throughout history have observed the Winter Solstice.

Walk this World at Christmastime by Big Picture Press & Debbie Powell
This beautifully illustrated lift-the-flap book takes children on a tour of Christmastime around the world, as well as other winter holidays that bring families together.

The Wish Tree by Kyo Maclear
This mesmerizing story beautifully captures the magical spirit of the holiday season. Its soothing, serene pace is a nice break from the frenzy of year-end traditions. And its inclusive, expansive message of hope and inspiration make this book perfect for everyone on your list.

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Conversation Starters

• What did the holidays look like in your grandparents' homes when they were children?

• What did the holidays look like in your parents' homes when they were children?

• How did some of the favorite holiday traditions get started in your family?

• What would your holiday be like if you didn’t receive any presents?

• What would it feel like to receive holiday gifts from a stranger instead of family and friends?

• What kind gestures have others done for you over the holidays?

• What are some ways you can show others you care during the holidays? Or what are some ways you have shared comfort and cheer with others?

• Snag our free printable count down to the New Year for holiday kindness ideas!

Haven't found what you're looking for?
Visit our Complete Resource List.

Or check out these ideas for sharing kindness this holiday season.

Disclaimer:  Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.

Picture Books to Inspire Environmental Justice Seekers

Get inspired to protect earth’s resources!

This list is designed to inspire your child to protect the earth and her resources for everyone. We've included fiction, historical fiction, and many nonfiction titles that offer practical tips and inspiring tales of earth-friendly acts of compassion.

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Talk about the issue

Parents, this book is an incredible tool to help you talk about and take action for our climate!

• Engage your children in a problem-solving mindset:

  • What good things are we already doing in our daily life to protect the earth’s resources?

  • What environmental challenges or changes have you noticed in our neighborhood, community, state, nation, or the world?

  • What changes can our family make right now to take even better care of our planet?

• Ask questions that prompt conversations about environmental ethics:

  • Why should we walk instead of drive to the park?

  • When trash disappears into the garbage truck, wastewater disappears down the drain or car exhaust disappears into the sky, where does it go?

  • If waste doesn’t stay and make our home or neighborhood dirty, why is it important to reduce our waste and speak up for a cleaner world?

• Acknowledge tough choices ("It's hard to know how far to turn down the thermostat in the winter."), and make a point to discuss your family’s environmental values.

• Explain that simple decisions can have an impact, like coloring on both sides of the page, turning off the water when you brush your teeth or turning out lights when you leave a room. 

• But make it clear that no family can protect earth’s resources all on their own. Raise your voice for collective solutions with DGT’s kid-friendly printable advocacy sheets or sign-up to volunteer with a local environmental justice organization.

“Make time to discuss the books you read and the service projects you do together. By talking intentionally and openly about complicated ideas, you are giving your child the opportunity to strengthen their compassion, problem-solving, and empathy muscles. ”

— Sarah Aadland, Doing Good Together

Print DGT’s reflection guide when you volunteer to heal the earth. Also, click here for our complete list of reflection guides.

Our Featured Title

We are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom
Winner of the 2021 Caldecott Medal, this lyrical story offers lessons in resilliance, celebration, and the importance of protecting and honoring the many ways all life on earth is connected.

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More DGT Favorites

365 Ways to Live Green for Kids: Saving the Environment at Home, School, or at Play–Every Day! by Sheri Amsel
Simple ideas for how kids can protect the earth.

The Adventures of a Plastic Bottle:  A Story About Recycling by Allison Inches
Ever wonder what happens when you recycle a plastic bottle? Follow its journey from your recycling bin to its new life as you learn about the importance of recycling.

Begin with a Bee by Liza Ketchum, Jacqueline Briggs Martin, and Phyllis Root
This poetic, life-cycle study of bumblebees encourages readers to recognize the part we all play in protecting the natural world.

The Boy Who Grew a Forest: The True Story of Jadav Payeng by Sophia Ghol
In this beautiful, award-winning book, you’ll meet Jadav Payeng, the boy who noticed the terrible impact of deforestation on his island home in India. Follow Payeng as he decided to do something about this devastation, reminding us all of the difference a single person with a big idea can make.

The Berenstain Bears Go Green by Jan Berenstain and Mike Berenstain
When the Berenstain family discovers that the town dump is overflowing, they must find a way to fix the problem before it's too late.

 The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
When drought struck fourteen-year-old William Kamkwamba's Malawi village, everyone struggled. Failing crops meant there wasn't enough money to attend school, so William spent his time in the library where he discovered and became an expert in the power of wind. This true story of a boy who brought electricity to his village is as exciting and inspiring as any fiction picture book.

Colonel Trash Truck by Kathleen Crawley
The colonel is on a mission to protect the beauty of the earth by cleaning up litter — and convincing others to do the same.

Fatima’s Great Outdoors by Ambreen Tariq
Join Fatima on an adventure that illustrates the calm and confidence that can be learned while spending time in nature, making new family members, and appreciating strong family roots.

The Greening Book by Ellen Sabin
Through activities and exercises, The Greening Book teaches children that they can make a difference in the future of our planet.

Heal The Earth: A White Feather Flier Adventure by Julian Lennon
This clever book ignites imagination and invites little readers on a journey to heal the earth. Best for readers ages 5 and under.

Here Comes the Garbage Barge by Jonah Winter
This hilarious story is sure to inspire your whole family to be mindful of your environmental impact.

Jayden’s Impossible Garden by Mélina Mangal
Jayden’s story highlights the beauty of intergenerational relationships and the power of perseverance in bringing a community garden to life.

Just a Dream by Chris Van Allsburg
What's so important about taking care of the earth anyway? Walter discovers in the answer in a captivating vision of the future. The illustrations alone will inspire your whole family, and the ending will inspire a discussion about what your family can do to create a brighter future.

The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
The Lorax, who speaks for the trees, warns the Once-ler that there are lasting consequences of cutting down trees. In case you've missed it, this book is also an exceptional animated film.

The Magic School Bus and the Climate Challenge by Joanna Cole
The beloved Ms. Frizzle not only explains climate change with both humor and science but empowers kids to help solve the crisis. In true Magic School Bus fashion, this book captivates children while delivering a critical message.

The Michael Recycle series by Ellie Bethel
Recycling is a superpower! This endearingly entertaining series features Michael encouraging people to recycle and get creative in various situations.

Nibi Emosaawdang /The Water Walker by Joanne Robertson (In English and Ojibwe)
An inspiring story of Josephine Mandamin, an Anishinaabe First Nations elder, who advocated for the protection of water. With vibrant illustrations and valuable teachings, it is a perfect reminder of our responsibility to Mother Earth.

Not for Me Please: I Choose to Act Green by Maria Godsey
This clever, rhyming tale introduces early elementary students to different ways they can “act green.” Join Luke as he role models how children can use the phrase “not for me” to step up and take action on behalf of the environment. Full of relatable examples and lively illustrations, this book is a fun way to reinvigorate your conservation habits.

One Plastic Bag: Isatou Ceesay and the Recycling Women of the Gambia by Miranda Paul
How much mess can one plastic bag create? Find out in this compelling story, and follow Ceesay in her creative effort to clean up.

Olivia’s Birds: Saving the Gulf by Olivia Bouler
Olivia drew and painted pictures of birds to raise money for wildlife affected by the Gulf oil spill in 2010, and in this book, she tells her story.

The Problem of the Hot World by Pam Bonsper
Five forest friends band together to teach an important lesson about global warming. Realizing that there are serious problems in their surroundings, these critters take a journey to figure out what’s causing them. Best for readers ages 5 and under.

Rocket Says Clean Up by Nathon Byron
Rocket visits her grandparents, where she loves to explore the beach. When she discovers the beach is clogged with trash, she knows she has to do something!

Sparrow Girl by Sara Pennypacker
This fictional tale with a historical backdrop, this moving story illustrates the dangers of disrupting the natural world and encourages everyone to make a difference in whatever way they can. Ming-Li’s country had declared sparrows the enemy of the farmers and announced a great "Sparrow War" to banish them from China. Ming-Li did not want to chase the birds away and vowed to save as many sparrows as she could, one by one.

This title isn’t currently available on Amazon but is available at World Saving Books.

The Tantrum that Saved the World by Megan Herbert and Michael E. Mann

This unique book is told in two parts. First, it tells the story of a little girl who inherits a big problem she didn’t ask for, gets really frustrated, and then channels all of her energy into action. Then, it takes care to explain the science of climate change in non-threatening, non-terrifying language for kids. It even includes an action plan families can follow after they read the book.

Rachel Carson and Her Book That Changed the World by Laurie Lawlor
A pioneer in the field of environmentalism, this picture book tells of how Rachel Carson overcame opposition from family and friends to become the author of the famed book, Silent Spring, which linked the effects of humans to the changes in the environment.

Snowy White World to Save by Stephanie Lisa Tara
Mama Polar Bear and her cubs are facing down the real impact of climate change.

What Happens to Our Trash? by D. J. Ward
Discover what happens to garbage and recycling once it’s disposed of.

Why Should I Series:
Why Should I Protect Nature?
Why Should I Recycle?
Why Should I Save Water?
Why Should I Save Energy?

All by Jen Green and Mike Gordon. This four-book series answers children’s questions about the environment and demonstrates the importance of protecting nature.

Wangari’s Trees of Peace by Jeanette Winter
The story of Wangari Maathai, the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize winner who planted over 30 million trees in Kenya and helped reshape her country’s approach to nature.

What a Waste: Trash, Recycling, and Protecting our Planet by Jess French
Informative, engaging, and eye-opening, this book introduces elementary-aged kids to the idea that nothing can ever be truly thrown “away.” Walk away with strategies to conserve resources at home and the inspiration to stick with those strategies.

Back to Read Together for more book lists...

Haven't found what you're looking for?
Visit our Complete Resource List.

Or check out these projects to heal the earth.

Disclaimer:  Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.

21 Chapter Books to Inspire Young Environmental Advocates

Inspire tweens and teens to try green acts of kindness.

This collection is full of practical tools for young environmental advocates. Featuring both fiction and nonfiction titles, your family is sure to find inspiration for environmental action.

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Featured Title

One Earth: People of Color Protecting Our Planet by Anuradha Rao
All readers will be inspired by this extraordinary new collection of stories featuring black, indigenous, and people of color who live and work as environmental defenders.
Ages 12 and up.

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Additional DGT Favorites

The New 50 Simple Things Kids Can Do to Save the Earth by the EarthWorks Group
Recycle at home, at school, and in your community. This book will tell you how.

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Arlene the Rebel Queen by Carol Liu
Arlene and her friends face opposition when she attempts to minimize her school’s carbon footprint. How can she make them see that changes can be for the better?

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Basher Science: Climate Change by Simon Basher
Using fun illustrations, this resource from Basher Science is brimming with answers to a wide range of issues related to climate change, from greenhouse gases to weather systems, renewable energy to human action (and inaction).

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Dr. Art’s Guide to Planet Earth: For Earthlings Ages 12 to 120 by Art Sussman, Ph.D.
A systems approach to how the earth works that is compelling, well-organized and understandable. There are also recommendations for what young people can do to help save the planet.

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Down To Earth Guide To Global Warming by Laurie David and Cambria Gordon
An introduction to global warming for kids, this book provides suggestions on how kids can help combat the problem.

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Flush by Carl Hiaasen
The second book in Hiaasen’s series of environmental novels and the follow-up to Hoot, Flush is the story of two children who work together to expose the illegal dumping of raw sewage from a casino ship.

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Generation Green: The Ultimate Teen Guide to Living an Eco-Friendly Life by Linda Sivertsen
Generation Green offers dozens of tips on how teens can do their part to help save the earth.

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The Green Teen: The Eco-Friendly Teen’s Guide to Saving the Planet by Jenn Savedge
Get teenagers interested in living green(er) by promoting this book which is filled with ideas and stories to inspire them.

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Green Careers: Choosing Work for a Sustainable Future by Jim Cassio and Alice Rush (New Society Publishers, 2009). Ever wondered about having a green job? This book will tell you about the skills, education, and expertise you’ll need, as well as what jobs are available to someone that is looking for an environmentally friendly career.

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Heroes of the Environment: True Stories of People Who Are Helping to Protect Our Planet by Harriet Rohmer
Bring the complicated challenges facing our planet down to the personal level with this collection of true stories of 12 people from across North America who have stepped up to make a difference.

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Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
The award-winning story of 13-year-old Brian Robeson’s struggle to survive after a plane crash in the Canadian wilderness. A classic.

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Hoot by Carl Hiassen
An ecological mystery for the middle school set in which Roy, a new kid at school, sets out to save some burrowing owls from developers.

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How Monkeys Make Chocolate: Foods and Medicines from the Rainforest by Adrian Forsyth
Get lots of information about the plants, animals, and people of the rainforest and their intricate web of interdependence.

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An Inconvenient Truth: The Crisis of Global Warming by Al Gore
A version of the best-selling book for younger readers, An Inconvenient Truth explains how our planet is being threatened by rising carbon dioxide levels and what we can do about climate change.

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It’s Getting Hot in Here by Bridget Heos
With an eye to past, present, and future generations, Heos explains climate change to teenagers and emphasizes the importance of taking immediate action.

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Julie of the Wolves by Jean Craighead George
A young Eskimo girl gets lost in the Alaska tundra after running away to find her San Francisco pen pal and is taken in by a pack of Arctic wolves. This Newberry Medal winner is a tale of survival and much more.

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The Last Wild by Piers Torday

This exciting novel draws readers into a world where animals are slowly fading into extinction, 12-year-old Kester Jaynes feels as if he hardly exists either. He’s been locked away in a home for troubled children and is unable to speak a word. Then one night, a flock of talking pigeons and a bossy cockroach come to help him escape, and he discovers that he can speak — to them. And the animals need him. Only Kester, with the aid of a stubborn, curious girl named Polly, can help them survive. The animals saved Kester. But can he save them?

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True Green Kids: 100 Things You Can Do To Save The Planet by Kim McKay
Published by National Geographic, this guide to conservation and environmental change lists several easy things kids can do at home, school, and in the community to help save the planet.

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Waste Disposal (Earth SOS) by Sally Morgan
Find out where waste (nuclear, dirty water, garbage, toxic) goes and how it affects the environment. Also learn about recycling metals, glass and paper, and discover what kids can do to help deal with waste.

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Wild Wings by Gill Lewis
Young readers will love this gripping story about a boy from Scotland and a girl from West Africa who join together to save a migrating Osprey share wonderful adventures along the way.

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Back to Read Together for more book lists...

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Talk about the issue.

• Engage your children in problem solving: What good things are we already doing in our day to help the earth? What simple changes can our family make to take even better care of our planet?

• Ask questions that prompt conversations about environmental ethics: "Why should we walk instead of drive to the park?"

• Acknowledge tough choices ("It's hard to know how far to turn down the thermostat in the winter."), and make a point to discuss your environmental values.

• Explain that simple decisions can have an impact, like coloring on both sides of  the page, turning off the water when you brush your teeth, or turning out lights when you leave a room. 

Haven't found what you're looking for?
Visit our Complete Resource List.

Or check out these projects to heal the earth.

Disclaimer:  Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.

41 Inspirational Children's Picture Books About Kindness

Teach empathy with these excellent stories!

Simple acts of kindness can have a big impact on the world, as one good deed inspires the next. This evolving list of picture books will motivate your family to help others in ways great and small every day.

Check back often to browse newly added titles!

Wanting to reflect on what you’ve read? See our list of everyday kindness discussion questions.

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Featured Title

Have you Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud
This is the book that’s sweeping elementary schools across the nation. The bucket provides a perfect metaphor for the way our words and actions can make others overflow with happy feelings or the way we may lash out at others when we’re feeling depleted and empty. Even the youngest readers will set out to fill a bucket near them!

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Be Kind by Pat Zietlow Miller
What does it really mean to be kind? Follow one big-hearted kid on her quest to find out. She soon discovers that even small acts of kindness can make a difference, inspiring her to imagine a chain of kind acts that stretch "all the way... around the world."

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Buddha at Bedtime: Tales of Love and Wisdom for you to Read with Your Child to Enchant, Enlighten and Inspire by Dharmachari Nagaraja
Explore 20 modernized versions of ancient Buddhist stories. Most are full of whimsy and wonder, spurring on creative play, even as they teach about kindness, courage, and peace.

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Change Sings by Amanda Gorman
This lively, inspiring illustrated poem is sure to light a spark for your young change maker.

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The Day It Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond
When Cornelia Augusta catches hearts from the sky, she must decide what heart to give to what friend.

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The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson
Fall in love with the latest picture book from the incomparable Jacqueline Woodson. This book is a beautiful reminder to take pride in our own stories, watch for what we have in common with others, and delight in our fabulous differences.

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Doña Flor: A Tall Tale about a Giant Woman with a Great Big Heart by Pat Mora
This heartwarming and humorous original tall tale is peppered with Spanish words and phrases. Readers will fall in love with Doña Flor, a giant lady with a great big heart.

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Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson
When Chloe and her friends reject new girl Maya, she learns a valuable lesson about accepting people. And the regret of missing an opportunity to share kindness.

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The Gift of Nothing by Patrick McDonnell
A wonderful story for inspiring a discussion about the power of friendship, appreciation for what we have, and the true meaning of gift giving.

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The Gift Inside the Box by Adam Grant and Allison Sweet Grass
Your whole family will enjoy this charming story about a gift in search of a giver. This story is a natural extension of Adam Grant’s remarkable work on the subject of generosity for adults.

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The Giving Book: Open the Door to a Lifetime of Giving by Ellen Sabin
This book is a wonderful tool to help elementary school kids understand and set their own charitable priorities. This book is one part journal, one part work book, and one part cheerleader for the task of doing good.

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The Giving Box: Create a Tradition of Giving with Your Children by Fred Rogers
The folktales and fables in this small volume encourage children in the spirit of giving. A “giving box” is also included — a simple way to make donating to charity a family ritual.

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Good People Everywhere by Lynea Gillen
A beautifully inspiring book filled with examples and activities that encourage children to live with kindness and gratitude as they look for the good in all people.

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A Hat for Mrs. Goldman: A Story about Knitting and Love by Michelle Edwards
This book is full of warmth and coziness, and it perfectly illustrates the challenges and satisfaction of creating a special gift for someone who deserves extra kindness.

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Buddy the Bucket Filler by Maria Dismondy and Carol McCloud
This heartfelt story illustrates the concept that we all carry around an invisible bucket and that we can fill or dip from ours and others buckets. Buddy, a boy who lives in the city, can't wait to visit his Uncle Frank in the countryside. Buddy ends up learning so much more than just farm life as he and his Uncle find opportunities for simple acts of kindness. 

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Here We Are: Notes for Living On Planet Earth by Oliver Jeffers
This users guide for planet earth is both simple and profound, folding bits of wisdom into every page.

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If Everybody Did by Ellen Javernick
This funny book has a nice message about the impact of your actions on others.

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I Walk with Vanessa: A Story about a Simple Act of Kindness by Kerascoët
Winner of Parents Magazine's "Best Book that Champions Kindness" of 2018! This wonderful, wordless book is a must-have for any big-hearted library.

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I am Human: A Book of Empathy by Susan Verde
This delightful book helps kids understand that even though we’re flawed and make mistakes, kind words and kind actions can make a difference. We’re all in this together!

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Kiki's Hats by Warren Hanson
Kiki’s story is another variation on the theme of how love and kindness can touch the world. Kids are inspired to start right now, sharing their own talents in whatever way they can. My five-year-old is especially in love with this simple story.

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Kindness Is Cooler, Mrs. Ruler by Margery Cuyler
 When Mrs. Ruler’s class is challenged to perform as many good deeds as possible, they find creative and fun ways to give back to people.

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Members, visit our Exclusive Downloads Collection to print conversation cards for this story.

The Kindness Quilt by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace
When the students in Mrs. Cooper’s class are challenged to do acts of kindness and depict them in drawings, their work is so impressive, they create a “kindness quilt” that continues to grow. Don't let the cute, simple design of this book fool you. Children are universally inspired to mimic the activity in this book as soon as reading time ends! Discover our printable project designed to work with this book!

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Lend a Hand: Poems about Giving by John Frank
So much good is captured in the pages of this book. Kind acts of children are captured in the thoughtful, observant way only poetry can accomplish. 

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Little Wooden Robot and the Log Princess by Tom Gauld
Reading like a classic fairytale, this enchanting story of a brother and sister helping each other reminds us to start with kindness at home. In the end, additional help is needed!

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The Mitten Tree by Candace Christiansen
This cozy story is will inspire a conversation about noticing the needs of others and doing what you can to make a difference.

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Paulie Pastrami Achieves World Peace by James Proimos
Equal parts silly and sweet, this fun tale is sure to add heart and giggles to storytime. Pair this book with a quick act of kindness for a fun, family adventure.

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The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld
This lovely book helps young readers think about where they can turn when they are feeling sad, and what they can do when they have a sad friend or family member.

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The Spiffiest Giant in Town by Julia Donaldson
George, a giant, believes his scruffy wardrobe needs an update, so he buys some new clothes. But he doesn't stay spiffy for long, as he runs into friends who need the items more than he does. Your whole family will love this simple story about kindness and generosity.

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Miss Tizzy by Libba Moore Gray
With her colorful daily adventures, Miss Tizzy shares true friendship with the children in her community. When she becomes ill, the children offer her strength and support using all she taught them. 

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Members, visit our Exclusive Downloads Collection to print conversation cards for this story.

Ordinary Mary’s Extraordinary Deed by Emily Pearson
Introduce the idea that kindness is contagious, and watch kindness circle the globe in just a few days. Mary, as ordinary as any other kid, starts it all with a special delivery. The rhythm and rhyme of this book make it a fun read aloud experience, too.

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Plant a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
This book’s simple, rhyming text and lovely illustrations, celebrates how a small act of kindness can grow into something amazing.

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The Quiltmaker’s Gift by Jeff Brumbeau
A great read and the perfect antidote to the season’s all-too-common messages of materialism and greed.

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Rosie Saves the World by Debbie Herman
Join Rosie on her quest to save the world. She discovers there is much to be done and many people to help in her neighborhood, but her greatest acts wills start right in her own home.

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Sidewalk Flowers by JonArno Lawson
In this beautiful, wordless picture book, a little girl collects wildflowers while her distracted father pays her little attention. Each flower becomes a gift, and whether the gift is noticed or ignored, both giver and recipient are transformed by their encounter.

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The Snail and the Whale by Julia Donaldson
Discover that friendship overcomes even pronounced difference, and no matter how small you are, you can make a big impact.

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Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch by Eileen Spinelli, illustrated by Paul Yalowitz
A grumpy, lonely man discovers the importance of friendship when he receives an unexpected package from an admirer. A compelling message about the power of kindness.

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Members, visit our Exclusive Downloads Collection to print conversation cards for this story.

The Three Questions by Jon J. Muth
Based on a short story by Leo Tolstoy, The Three Questions is the story of a little boy’s quest to discover the secret to being a good person.

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Tomorrow I’ll Be Kind by Jessica Hische
This beautiful, heartful book will inspire everyone, young and young-at-heart, to treat others with more compassion.

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The Wednesday Surprise by Eve Bunting
Bunting's beautiful story of a birthday surprise is richly layered with powerful messages about family, relationships, and the importance of everyday kindness.

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We're All Wonders by R. J. Palacio
The story of Auggie and his friends - stars of the middle grade hit Wonder - will inspire empathy, compassion, and joy in younger readers.

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Zen Shorts by Jon J. Muth
Muth weaves three Zen fables into a whimsical story of three siblings who befriend their new panda bear neighbor. Each fable provides openings for discussions about anger and forgiveness, wealth, manners, imagination, patience, luck, and many other big ideas.

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Reflection Questions

• How would we know if someone was having a bad day and may need a little extra kindness?

• What are some safe and simple ways to share kindness with a stranger?

• What acts of kindness have others shared with you recently? How did they make you feel?

• Have you ever thought of doing a kind thing for a stranger, but decided not to out of nervousness? How could you overcome your shyness in the future?

“Take care to discuss the books you read and the volunteering you do together. By talking intentionally and openly about complicated ideas, you are giving your child the opportunity to flex their compassion, problem-solving, and empathy muscles. ”

— Sarah Aadland, Doing Good Together

Print DGT’s reflection guide when you volunteer together. Also, click here for our complete list of reflection guides.

Back to Read Together for more book lists...

Haven't found what you're looking for?
Visit our Complete Resource List.

Or check out these projects to inspire your next act of kindness.

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Disclaimer:  Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.

22 U.S. History Picture Books That Make Perfect Additions to Any Classroom

Teach children resilience, perseverance, and justice while exploring America’s past

Explore these colorful collections to discover and rediscover American heroes. If your child is excited by a particular story, dig deeper and learn more together!

This list does not attempt to capture all of American history. Instead, we aim to highlight the very best biographies, histories, and historical fiction that can be useful teaching tools in schools.

Take your reading further with this discussion guide!

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DGT’s Favorite Collections

The ABC’s of Black History by Rio Cortez
Young readers will love this richly drawn, lyrical book packed with visionaries and pivotal moments from Black history.
Ages 5-10

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American Trailblazers: 50 Remarkable People Who Shaped U.S. History by Lisa Trusiani
This collection does a great job of introducing young learners to the many different ways people can make a difference.
Ages 8-12

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The “I Am” Ordinary People Change the World series by Brad Metzler
These are not hidden figures in our history, but Metzler's quirky collection of biographies is a great starting point for anyone looking to offer a clear picture of how ordinary people can dream big and make a difference.
Ages 5 - 10

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Nuestra América: 30 Inspiring Latinas/Latinos Who Have Shaped the United States by Sabrina Vourvoulias
Including activists, artists, athletes, and more, this collection offers more great examples of the many different ways people make a difference.
Ages 8-12

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Rad American Women A-Z: Rebels, Trailblazers, and Visionaries who Shaped Our History... and Our Future by Kate Schatz
This book reminds us all that even though working toward equality isn't easy and isn't always personally successful, every effort pushes us closer to justice as a society.
Ages 8-12

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Ground Breaking Guys: 40 Men Who Became Great by Doing Good by Stephanie True Peters
This collection of stories offers courageous, creative role models to inspire young people to do good and act with compassion no matter what path they follow.
Ages 8-12

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We Are Still Here!: Native American Truths Everyone Should Know by Traci Sorell and Frane Lessac
This is an essential exploration of the modern history, the present, and the future of Indigenous communities.
Ages 8-12

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More DGT’s Favorites

Are we missing your family’s favorite? Share it in the suggestions!

Henry’s Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad by Ellen Levine
All kids will be captivated by the lengths Henry goes to in order to gain his freedom. Unbelievably it works! Ages 4-8

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An Apple for Harriet Tubman by Glennette Tilley Turner
An Apple for Harriet Tubman is the story of the life of Harriet Tubman, from her childhood working in the apple orchard on a plantation to her adulthood as a free woman and the conductor on the Underground Railroad.
ages 5-10

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My Name is Truth by Ann Turner
Told in her own voice, this is the true story of former slave and abolitionist Isabella Baumfree, better known as Sojourner Truth. This is a picture book biography at its best!
Ages 6-10

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Nurse, Soldier, Spy: The Story of Sarah Edmonds, a Civil War Hero by Marissa Moss
This incredible, true story represents the hundreds of women that dressed as men to fight for their country.
Ages 5-8

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Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré Hardcover by Anika Aldamuy Denise
Help young readers discover the power of libraries and the courageous, compassionate librarians who run them.
Ages 5-12

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Tree Lady: The Story of How One Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever by H. Joseph Hopkins
Sticking with our theme of the many colorful ways different people have made a difference, Kate’s story or persistently solving the problem of a tree-less San Diego is sure to captivate changemakers.
Ages 5-10

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Amelia and Eleanor Go for a Ride by Pam Muñoz Ryan
Brian Selznick illustrates this amazing true story of how Amelia Earhart and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt snuck away from a dinner party to take a flight over Washington D.C. in their evening gowns!
Ages7-10

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The Fearless Flights of Hazel Ying Lee by Julie Leung
While your head is in the clouds (see title above) meet Hazel Ying Lee and the efforts of the Women Airforce Service Pilots during World War II.
Ages 4-8

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Chester Nez and the Unbreakable Code: A Navajo Code Talker's Story by Joseph Bruchac
Chester’s story is heartbreaking, captivating, and inspiring all at once. Young readers will be inspired by Chester and the Code Talker’s heroic actions during WWII.
Ages 8-12

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Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot by Margot Theis Raven
This is the true story of Lt. Gail Halvorsen, the “Chocolate Pilot,” who spread joy and sweetness during a difficult time. He dropped more than 20 tons of chocolate, candy, and gum for Berlin’s children after Stalin blockaded West Berlin in 1948.
Ages 5-10

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Baseball Saved Us by Ken Mochizuki
This story of hope and courage is set in a Japanese American internment camp. Readers will be inspired by Shorty and how people at the camp found joy and dignity on the baseball field.
Ages 5-10

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Lillian's Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voter's Rights Act of 1965 by Jonah Winter and Shane W. Evans
Through the powerful memories of a one-hundred-year-old African American woman, readers are given a stunning and poetic view of this sweeping victory in American history.
Ages 5-12

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Seeds of Freedom: The Peaceful Integration of Huntsville, Alabama by Hester Bass
This gently-told story shows how racial discrimination, bullying, and unfairness can be addressed successfully with resourcefulness and perseverance.
Ages 5-12

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This is the Rope: A Story from the Great Migration by Jacqueline Woodson
This story of one family’s journey north during the Great Migration starts with a little girl in South Carolina who finds a rope that becomes integral for three generations of family history.
Ages 5-10

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Her Right Foot by Dave Eggers
What can the Statue of Liberty teach children about freedom, courage, and the nature of our democracy? Kids of all ages will be captivated by the answer with this clever introduction to America's greatest icon.
Ages 5-12

This is not an exhaustive list! Find more stories here:

• Learn in Color’s 50 Picture Book Biographies

• Book Riot’s Historical Fiction Picture Books

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Conversation Starters

• Who gets to decide what histories get told and retold?

• Why do diverse and inclusive histories matter?

• What are your favorite historical figures or stories and why?

• What would you like to know more about?

• How does this story make you feel about our history?

• Do you think this story makes a difference today? In what way?

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Back to Read Together for more book lists...

Haven't found what you're looking for?
Visit our Complete Resource List.

Or check out these projects and book lists to inspire your family to share kindness with your own creativity.

Disclaimer:  Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.