JENNIFER: Kindness

Here at Monash Libraries, we value the benefits of stories across all ages, but the benefits to young children are quite special.

Meet Jennifer, our Youth Librarian at Oakleigh Library, who has selected this special list of five picture books with a strong theme of kindness.

Jennifer has strong memories of storybooks, fairy tales and other traditional stories from throughout her life that had themes of kindness; stories that resonated and stayed with her well after the book was closed.

“Reading stories about other people builds empathy. Kindness will grow from understanding the behaviour of others,” says Jennifer, when reflecting on her reading list.

Alexander’s Outing is a nostalgic pick. Jennifer read it as a parent and now to her Storytime attendees.

“I love that there is this one duck that doesn’t listen and does his own thing, and that all these people come to help him.”

Pamela Allen’s well known story about a duck at the centre of a rescue mission in iconic Sydney has been much loved by readers since it was first published in 1993. Along with showing the kindness of strangers to a duckling stuck down a deep hole, the book also explores the science of density and floating. But for Jennifer, the kindness shown to the duck speaks loudly.

“I also love The Very Cranky Bear (by Aaron Blabey). All these animals try to help him, but their acts of kindness fail because they are thinking about themselves more than Bear. But the sheep puts Bear first and saves the day.”

The difference between good intentions and true kindness is well communicated in this story!

Kindness by Todd Parr also features on Jennifer’s list of picture book recommendations.

“Like all his books, Todd Parr uses bright and simple pages with clear messages. His book is highly relatable and has good talking points for families that want to talk to their children about the importance of being kind” Jennifer explains.

Jennifer then shares Kookoo Kookaburra, with a book cover that exudes Aboriginal Australian design and colours, written by Gregg Dreise.

“This book has one of my favourite lines. Kindness is like a boomerang. If you throw it often it will come back often.”

Jennifer says it’s a nice take-away line that’s memorable and encourages children to make regular acts of kindness.

“I love the artwork throughout. It’s a bit wordy for toddlers but great for children aged around 4+.”

The last book Jennifer reveals is The Nerdy Birdy, written by Danielle Wheeldon. It is the story of Ned, a bird who gets teased for being different, and targeted by one bully in particular.

“This story is great,” beams Jennifer. “I love that in the end, even though he has been teased, he is kind and helps the bully when the bully is in trouble. He shows that being kind, and rising above past experiences, can change the behaviour of others for the better.”

Jennifer describes how parents can use picture books such as these with their young children.

“Books can help conversations about how children can be kind,” she explains. “If mum or dad work shift work, The Very Cranky Bear is a good one!” she laughs. “But reading stories generally builds empathy, and we all want our children to be kind and thoughtful, and using stories like these helps kids be the best they can be, and succeed socially when they start school.”

All titles are available through Monash Public Library Service, and our Youth Librarians at all branches are happy to help families select titles on this or any other theme to support positive growth and development.

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