Exploring Kindness with When We Are Kind
As a book blogger, I often find myself entranced by stories that not only entertain but also impart meaningful lessons. When We Are Kind, written by Monique Gray Smith, immediately caught my attention—not just for its vibrant illustrations, but for its deep-rooted message about kindness. In a world where compassion can sometimes feel scarce, this book serves as a heartfelt reminder of the rippling effects of kindness in our lives.
At its core, When We Are Kind eloquently encourages children to extend kindness not just to their friends and family, but also to themselves, the earth, and animals. Each page invites readers to explore the emotions tied to acts of kindness, painting a picture of happiness and comfort that blooms from both giving and receiving. The joy that emanates from these pages reflects the genuine intent behind Gray Smith’s words—she wants every child to understand the power they hold in spreading kindness.
The enchanting illustrations by New Mexican artist Nicole Neidhardt are a perfect complement to Gray Smith’s text. I found myself lost in the vivid portrayal of what I interpreted to be New Mexico landscapes—sprawling blue skies, corn fields, and adobe houses. These elements not only capture the essence of the region but also showcase the rich Native American influences woven throughout the narrative. I particularly appreciated instances where cultural symbols like dreamcatchers and traditional drums were highlighted, reinforcing the story’s roots in Native heritage.
Diversity shines in this book; I loved seeing a scene where children of different backgrounds come together, including a child in a wheelchair. Such representation is vital, especially in literature for young readers. The term “elders,” while familiar, serves as a beautiful nod to the reverence for ancestry prevalent in Indigenous communities—something so important in today’s increasingly multicultural landscape.
What sets When We Are Kind apart is its bilingual element; the inclusion of both French and Diné (Navajo) translations. As someone deeply interested in preserving languages and cultures, this aspect resonated with me profoundly. The Diné language, despite being one of the most widely spoken Native languages, is sadly waning, with less than 170,000 speakers today. That makes a book like this crucial—not only celebrating the language but also spreading awareness of its cultural significance.
In summary, I wholeheartedly recommend When We Are Kind for families wishing to foster a foundation of kindness and respect within their children. Whether you are of Native American descent or are discovering this rich culture for the first time, this book is a beautiful addition to any child’s library. It welcomes readers into a world where kindness isn’t just an act; it’s a way of life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Orca Book Publishers for the opportunity to review this important book. A special shout-out to Monique Gray Smith and Nicole Neidhardt for creating a work that encourages children to embrace kindness in its multifaceted forms. As I closed the last page, I felt reinvigorated by the reminder that every act of kindness, no matter how small, can indeed make a world of difference.